About Hawksbill Turtle

(Eretmochelys imbricata)

The Hawksbill Turtle is a critically endangered turtle species found in offshore waters of mainlands,
island shelves and coral reef formations. They are one of two species of turtles in the UAE and can
be spotted in prime areas such as Abu Al Abyadh Island and Bu Tinah Island.

Al Dhafra region between the islands of Abu Al Abyadh and Bu Tinah, as well as in the waters bordering the islands of Al Yasat and Muhayimat

The Hawksbill Turtle is a critically endangered turtle species found in offshore waters of mainlands, island shelves and coral reef formations. They are one of two species of turtles in the UAE and can be spotted in prime areas such as Abu Al Abyadh Island and Bu Tinah Island

Adult hawksbill turtles typically measure between 60 to 95 centimeters in length

Adult hawksbill turtles weigh around 45 to 70 kilograms, as much as a human adult

What do they eat?

sponges

jellyfish

squid

shrimps

Interesting Fact:

Hawksbills in the UAE are usually smaller in size than other parts of the world due to the types of food available

Nesting and Reproduction

Female hawksbill turtles return to the beaches where they were born to lay their eggs, a behavior known as natal homing. In the UAE, nesting typically occurs between March and June.

The eggs incubate for about two months before hatching, and the hatchlings make their way to the sea.

A single female can lay up to 200 eggs in a nest, which she digs in the sand

Interesting Fact:

Hawksbills in the UAE are usually smaller in size than other parts of the world due to the types of food available

Threats

Habitat Loss

Pollution

Climate Change

Change in Temperature

Coastal development and destruction of coral reefs reduce their natural habitats and disrupt their nesting sites.

Marine debris, especially plastic, can be ingested by turtles, leading to injury or death.

Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification negatively impact coral reefs and nesting sites.

During the winter, marine turtles can become lethargic and are less active due to the drop in temperature. Barnacles then attach themselves to their shell and weigh them down affecting their movements.

Fun facts you probably didn't know

5 Things You Might Not Know About Hawksbill Turtles

Test Your Knowledge

Take the Hawksbill turtle quiz and see how many questions you get right! 

What do Hawksbill turtles eat?

jellyfish, sponges, squid, shrimp

How many eggs did Hawksbill turtles lay?

200 Eggs

Where are Hawksbill turtles found?

Al Dhafra region

How You Can Help

Everyone can help contribute to hawksbill turtle conservation.

Reduce Plastic Use

Avoid single-use plastics and help minimise marine pollution.

Participate in Cleanups

Join clean-up activities to help keep beaches clean

Join Awareness Sessions

Take part in awareness sessions to learn more about turtles and their impact on the ecosystem

The Hawksbill turtle is a vital part of the UAE’s marine life. By understanding their importance and the threats they face, we can all take progressive steps to help protect these magnificent creatures for future generations. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure that hawksbill turtles continue to thrive in the UAE’s waters.