Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Eretmochelys imbricata

Recognizable by its narrow, pointed beak and beautifully patterned shell, the Hawksbill Sea Turtle
is closely connected to the health of tropical coral reefs.

Meet the Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Named for its distinctive hawk-like beak, the Hawksbill is specially adapted to reach into the cracks and crevices of coral reefs in search of food. By feeding on sponges and other reef organisms, Hawksbills play an important role in maintaining healthy coral ecosystems.

Photo By/CreditCaroline S. Rogers/NOAA

The Journey Continues

Female Hawksbill Sea Turtles return to tropical and subtropical beaches to nest, often near the coral reef habitats where they spend much of their lives.

After nesting, they return to the sea. Weeks later, tiny hatchlings emerge from the sand and begin their journey toward the ocean, eventually becoming part of the reef ecosystems their species helps sustain.

Photo By/CreditCaroline S. Rogers/NOAA

Built for the Journey

  • A Reef Specialist

    The Hawksbill’s narrow, pointed beak allows it to reach into small spaces in coral reefs and feed on sponges and other organisms.

  • Coral Reef Guardians

    By feeding on sponges, Hawksbills help maintain space on reefs for corals and other marine life to grow.

  • Tropical Travelers

    Hawksbills inhabit tropical waters around the world, moving among coral reefs, coastal feeding grounds and nesting beaches.

A Future Worth Protecting

Hawksbill Sea Turtles face serious threats from habitat loss, accidental capture in fishing gear, marine pollution and the illegal trade in their distinctive shells. Protecting coral reefs, nesting beaches and the waters connecting them helps safeguard both Hawksbills and the remarkable ecosystems they call home.

Learn How You Can Help