Turtles (order Testudines) are reptiles characterized by a special shell developed mainly from their ribs. Modern turtles are divided into two major groups, the Pleurodira (side necked turtles) and Cryptodira …

Dec 11, 2025 · turtle, (order Testudines), any reptile with a body encased in a bony shell, including tortoises. Although numerous animals, from invertebrates to mammals, have evolved shells, none …

Jul 27, 2025 · This guide explores 35 types of common turtles and tortoises from all over the world—ranging from well-known species like the red-eared slider and box turtle to majestic sea …

These magnificent creatures come in all shapes and sizes and live in a number of different environments. They all belong to a group of reptiles called Testudines, which includes turtles, …

Jul 16, 2025 · From tiny, swamp-dwelling species to gentle tortoise giants, these tough reptiles are some of the longest-lived animals on Earth. Turtles are unique because they are the only vertebrates with a …

Turtles (Testudines) are one of the most prominent reptile orders, characterized by their large bony shells that act as their primary defense mechanism. The head and limbs are retrieved within the shell …

Turtles are reptiles of the order Testudines (all living turtles belong to the crown group Chelonia), most of whose body is shielded by a special bony or cartilaginous shell developed from their ribs.

May 27, 2024 · Turtles are a broad group of animals, and they’ve existed on this earth for quite some time. There are over 300 different species, and each one has unique facts about its behaviors, diets, …

Turtles and tortoises are a very old group of reptiles, going back about 220 million years. Of all wildlife with backbones, turtles are the only ones that also have a shell, made up of 59 to 61 bones covered …

Get your turtle identification help with great pictures and information on the different types of turtles native to North America.