Turtles are reptiles of the order Chelonii or Testudines and are characterised by a special bony shell which is developed from their ribs and acts as a shield against predators. Turtles date back around 220 million years making it one of the oldest reptile groups, older than lizards, snakes or crocodiles. There are 327 known species of turtle alive today and many of them are an endangered species. Read the fact file below for more information on this remarkable animal. Source: KidsKonnect