Members of the Reptilia possess dry and horny skin with scales or scutes. Limbs are usually four, each with 5 clawed toes, reduced or absent in some. Reptiles are terrestrial, fresh water or marine. They are found in tropics and warm temperate regions. Tortoises and lizards are also associated with Hindu Gods and Goddesses. It shows that the ancient people had a greater knowledge about the biology of reptiles which were quite common in the hoary past in all the ecological zones of India. The chelonians are broad bodied encased in a firm shell or founded dorsal carapace and flat ventral plastron united at the sides. Body is covered with polygonal scutes or leathery skin. Jaws are with horny sheaths but no teeth. Eggs are laid in holes in their habitat.