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hawksbill

turtle
Also known as: Eretmochelys imbricata

Quick Summary

The hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) is a small to medium-sized sea turtle found in warm waters. It is characterized by a narrow, hawk-like beak and a shell with overlapping horny plates. Hawksbills primarily feed on sponges and are often found in coral reef habitats.12

Sea turtles, including the hawksbill, belong to two families: Dermochelyidae (leatherbacks) and Cheloniidae (which includes hawksbills, green turtles, loggerheads, and ridleys). These turtles are highly aquatic, with streamlined bodies and flippers adapted for swimming. While most sea turtles are carnivorous, the hawksbill specifically consumes sponges and other invertebrates. Historically, the hawksbill's shell was used to produce tortoiseshell. Unfortunately, most sea turtle species, including the hawksbill, are considered threatened or endangered due to various factors, including capture in fisheries.21

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