The Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) is a critically endangered sea turtle belonging to the family Cheloniidae. It is the only species in its genus. he species has a worldwide distribution. The hawksbill's appearance is similar to that of other marine turtles. It has a generally flattened body shape, a protective carapace, and flipper-like arms, adapted for swimming in the open ocean.
Ten Facts about Hawksbill
- Found predominantly in tropical reefs of the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans.
- Adult hawksbill sea turtles have been known to grow up to 1 metre (3 ft) in length.
- Weighing around 80 kilograms (176 lb) on average.
- Adult hawksbill sea turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs. They are usually seen resting in caves and ledges in and around these reefs throughout the day.
- While they are omnivorous, sea sponges are the principal food of hawksbill sea turtles. Sponges constitute 70-95% of their diets in the Caribbean.
- Hawksbill mating season- In Atlantic ocean - April to November, Indian ocean-September to February.
- Hawksbills evidently reach maturity after thirty years.
- They are believed to live from thirty to fifty years in the wild.
- Predators are sharks, estuarine crocodiles, octopuses, and some species of pelagic fish.
- Due to its consumption of venomous cnidarians, hawksbill sea turtle flesh can become toxic.
