Filling the blank space within a path's shape

[TurtleyTrendy]

I wasnt sure how to word this, but I have an outline of a turtle, made with a bunch of paths. I want to fill the white space inside with color or a pattern, like a sillouette. Hellllllp. Obviously I can use a brush color it in, but I would love to know if there is a nother way. Thanks!!! 

Image is .eps and came in multiple paths. Top: Seperated Paths Middle: Grouped. Green is all connected into a compound. 

[Kurt Gold]

Take a look at Live Paint and the Shape Builder tool.

[matthewn43692242 · Accepted solution]

Live paint would do it as stated above. Here's a more manual way:

1.) Copy all the shapes

2.) Lock all the shapes or make a new layer then lock the original layer.

3.) Paste the copy on top or onto the new top layer. Keep it all selected

4.) Use the "Unite" operation in the "Pathfinder" window

5.) Drag a box with the shape tool,  in a different color, big enough to cover the whole design.

6.) Move the box behind the combined turtle or the combined turtle to the front.

7.) Select both the box & the turtle.

8.) Use the "Minus front" operation in the pathfinder

9.) you should now have your fill shapes & some extra junk around the outside. 

10. Delete the junk.

Done.