Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) — Critically Endangered Reptilia

Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Eretmochelys imbricata

Conservation Status

Critically Endangered

Reptilia · Cheloniidae

About

The hawksbill sea turtle is a critically endangered sea turtle belonging to the family Cheloniidae. It is the only extant species in the genus Eretmochelys. The species has a global distribution that is largely limited to tropical and subtropical marine and estuary ecosystems.

Fun Fact

Hawksbill sea turtles are the primary predators of sea sponges, consuming dozens of kilograms annually and maintaining reef diversity by preventing sponges from smothering coral.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Found in tropical coral reefs.

Diet

Feed only on select species, ignoring many others.

Lifespan

60 years

Threats

  • Tortoiseshell Trade
  • Egg Collection and Beach Disturbance
  • Coral Reef Degradation
  • Fisheries Bycatch

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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