Turtles are a breed of reptile at an evolutionary zenith, with a lineage stretching back over 200 million years. Under their unmistakable shells, testament to their survival, they harbor a natural history of epochal proportions. This book offers a full account of their evolution, diversity, ecology, behavior, the important part they pay in ecosystems, and the problems now faced by them world-wide due to habitat destruction, over-collection for pets, hunting for foods and ornaments. There are over 300 species of turtle known to inhabit forests, mountains, rivers, lakes, seas, plains, and oceans of the world - sea turtles, snapping turtles, mud turtles, giant musk turtles, tortoises...all these and more are in this fascinating book which comes with a list of turtle organizations. Accompanying the authoritative fact-filled text are colour illustrations and photographs to give a comprehensive overview of these fascinating reptiles.