Turtles lay their eggs on land. In most species, the female excavates a nest with her back feet. The females of most species lay eggs several times a year. The number of eggs deposited at a laying varies from one to more than 200, depending on the species and the individual. Eggs are round or oval and either soft- or hard-shelled. Some females produce fertile eggs for three or four years after a single mating. After laying the eggs, the female covers them with earth and leaves them. They hatch in a few weeks. If laid in the fall in temperate regions, they may not hatch until spring. Young aquatic turtles find their way to the water by themselves.

Some turtles eat only vegetation, others only animal matter. Most turtles, however, are omnivorous, eating plants, animals, and even carrion (decaying flesh). Turtles eat abundantly at each meal, but can fast for several weeks without apparent ill effects.

More than 40 kinds of turtles are in danger, including many types of sea turtles.

Some turtles are close to becoming extinct, or being killed off, because they are hunted for their meat and eggs. Others, like the hawksbill, are hunted for their beautiful shells, which can be made into jewelry or sold as ornaments.Some turtles have lost their habitat, too. Their natural homes have been destroyed to make way for cities and farms. Pollution from cars and factories has poisoned the land and waters where they live as well.

Many people are working hard to protect turtles. Preserves have been set up where the turtles can live safely. Scientists also raise some endangered species on farms to keep the species alive. Further efforts like these are needed to make sure that these ancient reptiles will continue to be here for a long time to come.