Hawksbill Turtle

ID points

• Shell scutes overlap in layers like roof tiles
• Beak sharp and hooked, like a hawk's bill
• Rear edge of the shell is clearly serrated

Basics

Family

Cheloniidae

Length

70–95 cm

Depth

1-30 m

Regions

Indo-Pacific reefs · Caribbean & W. Atlantic

Distribution

Tropical coral reef waters worldwide

Habitat

Coral reefs and rocky shores

Diet

Sponges, anemones

Easily confused with

Green Sea TurtleShell scutes do not overlap, the edge is smoothLoggerhead Sea TurtleHead unusually large and broad, out of proportion with the bodyFlatback Sea TurtleFlat shell with edges clearly turned upwards

Fun fact

The hawksbill has a narrow, pointed beak like that of a bird of prey and a shell marked with beautiful amber patterning, which is exactly why it was hunted in huge numbers for the tortoiseshell trade and is now critically endangered. It can digest reef sponges that are toxic to other animals, which makes it an important caretaker of the coral reef ecosystem.

More in this family

• Olive Ridley Turtle