Hawksbill Turtle (Penyu Sisik)
Eretmochelys imbricata
A smaller, reef-loving turtle with a pointed hawk-like beak, often weaving through coral structure.
HabitatCoral reefs, rocky reefs, lagoons
DietSea sponges and reef invertebrates
SizeUp to 1.0 meter
BehaviorShy; threads through reefs; often solitary
Where you might see it
On coral-rich snorkel and dive sites, look along reef walls and crevices where it forages.
How to spot it
Search complex reef structure for a narrow beak and patterned shell. Check coral overhangs and cracks.
Responsible Encounter Guidelines
- •Give it space; hawksbills spook easily.
- •Never corner it in narrow passages.
- •No touching; avoid contact with reef.
- •Keep fins up; dont kick sand.
- •Skip flash; limit time with animal.
Gallery
Conservation Status
IUCN: Critically Endangered; threatened by illegal shell trade and reef loss.