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Eretmochelys imbricata
A pointed beak helps this reef visitor reach food in narrow crevices.
Meet this turtle
Hawksbills eat a variety of foods, with sea sponges favored in many areas. Their diet varies with local conditions. The narrow beak helps them reach into reefs. Hawksbills can migrate long distances between feeding grounds and nesting beaches.
Conservation in context
NOAA lists hawksbills as endangered under U.S. law. Demand for their patterned shell has been a major threat; a beautiful souvenir can have a harmful history.
Global assessments and national legal listings answer different questions. For a dated global comparison, see the seven-species guide. Categories can change as assessments are updated.
Think like a scientist
How does a narrow beak help a turtle feed in a coral reef?
Keep exploring
Check the source
NOAA Fisheries: Hawksbill turtle. Source checked . This is an editorial source check, not independent scientific certification.