- The scientific name of the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
- The hawksbill turtle is one of the smallest species of turtles.
- Some of its characteristics include a narrow, sharp beak, and a beautifully patterned carapace.
- The distribution area of the hawksbill turtle is tropical, warm coastal waters, ranging from the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, to the Indian Ocean.
- It is difficult to know the exact population of hawksbill turtles, but studies show there are only 5 populations worldwide, consisting of around 8,000 total turtles, with only 1,000 females nesting each year.
- Female hawksbill turtles will leave the sea to lay their eggs on the beach. They carefully choose a spot, dig a hole, lay their eggs, cover them, and return to the sea. The eggs will remain buried for about 60 days before finally hatching.
- Hawksbill turtles nest every 2 to 3 years and lay 60 to 200 eggs in just one nest.
- The largest hawksbill turtle colony in the world nests on Milman Island in Queensland, Australia.
- Hawksbill turtles are omnivores. Their sharp, narrow beak is similar to that of a predatory bird. The shape and length of their beak allow them to reach small gaps in coral reefs to feed on sponges and other invertebrates.
- Coral reef sponges are the primary food source for hawksbill turtles. For most animals, these sponges are toxic due to the spicules (glass-like spikes) they contain, but hawksbill turtles are immune to this, so not many animals can compete with hawksbill turtles for eating these sponges.
- By eating sponges, hawksbill turtles help create space for other marine life on the coral reefs, as sponges take up much space in the coral reef ecosystem. This makes hawksbill turtles an important part of the ecosystem, contributing to the health of coral reefs and the broader marine life.
- Hawksbill turtles also eat sea anemones, mollusks, and jellyfish. This makes them known as opportunistic predators.
- The hawksbill turtle’s beautiful carapace is tough and effectively protects them from predators. However, they still fall prey to sharks, crocodiles, octopuses, and their biggest predator—humans.
- Hawksbill turtles have been swimming in the oceans longer than human life on this planet. This reptile has existed for the past 100 million years.
- Unfortunately, these beautiful creatures are the most endangered species of turtles. The trade of accessories made from hawksbill turtle carapace is a major factor threatening their survival.
- The carapace’s beautiful gold and brown patterns make hawksbill turtles hunted and illegally sold on the black market. Their scutes (scales) are used to make valuable decorative products and jewelry.
- In Japan, hawksbill turtle carapace, known as “bekko,” has been part of traditional culture for 300 years and is even used in traditional wedding dresses.
- The trade of hawksbill turtle shells is illegal by law. However, hawksbill turtle shells are still found in souvenirs and jewelry. In fact, they are the most frequently seized illegal items by customs officers.
Save the Turtles from Extinction
Turtles face a variety of threats, including poaching, plastic pollution, and habitat destruction.
Every step you take supports turtle protection and makes a real impact!
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Your Donation Supports:
The release of baby turtles (hatchlings) into the wild
Protection and monitoring of turtle nesting sites
Beach clean-ups and habitat restoration
Conservation awareness campaigns and environmental education
The release of baby turtles (hatchlings) into the wild
Protection and monitoring of turtle nesting sites
Beach clean-ups and habitat restoration
Conservation awareness campaigns and environmental education