Hawksbill turtle

The Hawksbill Turtle is a sea turtle distributed in tropical areas, as well as in the subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans. It is a well-traveled animal, capable of nesting in at least 70 countries around the world. One of its main characteristics is its shell, formed by overlapping plates and serrated edges whose attractive design makes it a desirable material for the manufacture of different objects. This shell, which is predominantly black and brown with marbling round the edges (with light and dark bands) protects its flat body, similar to other sea turtles. It has fin-shaped limbs ending in two claws, as well as a sharp, curved beak and a prominent upper jaw.

Hawksbill turtles are diurnal and follow complex migratory routes. They usually travel alone through the reefs and areas of the continental shelf, passing through different habitats, in search of food. An opportunistic predator, its diet is based on sea-sponges. Females reach sexual maturity at the age of three years, when they mate in waters close to the shore. Incubation lasts 60 days. They may lay more than one clutch during the breeding season, although it may take them two to seven years to reproduce again. Clutches are between 100 and 140 eggs. Their life expectancy can reach 50 years.