Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Eretmochelys imbricata

Critically Endangered
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DESCRIPTION

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a medium-sized marine turtle recognizable by its distinctive hawk-like beak and overlapping scutes, which create a serrated edge on its carapace. Primarily found in tropical coral reefs, it plays a crucial role in these ecosystems by feeding mainly on sponges, which are toxic to most other animals. This species is critically endangered due to historical exploitation for its beautiful shell and ongoing threats like habitat loss and bycatch.

Max Length 1 m
Max Weight 90 kg
Lifespan 30 - 60 years
Habitat Coastal zone, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 20 m
Diet Omnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Hawksbill Sea Turtle

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Hawksbill Sea Turtle has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Where can you see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle?

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle can be seen at 50 dive destinations in 11 countries. The best spots include Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Andros Barrier Reef (Bahamas), Ari Atoll (Maldives), Baa Atoll (Maldives), and Cozumel (Mexico).

What is the best time to see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle?

Sightings of the Hawksbill Sea Turtle peak at different times depending on the destination: Abu Dabbab from April to October, Nusa Penida from May to October, Playa del Carmen from May to October, and Tubbataha Reefs from March to June.

Can you see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle all year round?

Yes. At Andros Barrier Reef, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Cozumel, and Exuma Cays, the Hawksbill Sea Turtle is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle at Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, North Male Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, Addu Atoll, and Fuvahmulah.

Where can you see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle in Belize?

In Belize, you can see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle at Glovers Reef, Great Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and Turneffe Atoll.

Where can you see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle at Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Baja California Sur, Holbox, and Revillagigedo Islands.

How big does the Hawksbill Sea Turtle get?

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle can reach up to 1 m in length and 90 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Hawksbill Sea Turtle live in?

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is found in these habitats: coastal zone, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Hawksbill Sea Turtle live?

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle lives from the surface down to 20 m.

What does the Hawksbill Sea Turtle eat?

Eats both plant and animal matter, which lets it adapt its diet to whatever the habitat offers.

When is the Hawksbill Sea Turtle most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Hawksbill Sea Turtle live?

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle lives 30 to 60 years.

What is the conservation status of the Hawksbill Sea Turtle?

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Hawksbill Sea Turtle. Spotted something that looks off?

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