WHAT DOES A HAWKSBILL TURTLE LOOK LIKE?
The Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) has a narrow, beak-like mouth which enables it to feed primarily on sponges that grow on the reef systems in the Caribbean. The shell, or carapace, consists of mottled (brown, yellow and black) scutes that overlap, similar to shingles on a roof. Adult Hawksbill turtles range from 150 220 lbs., and can reach a length of 3 feet. Paddle-like flippers allow it to move easily through the ocean. The two front flippers are used for propulsion through the water. The two rear, shorter flippers are used for steering. In females, the rear flippers are also used for nest digging. WHAT ABOUT NESTING? Hawksbill sea turtles nest primarily on the west and south coast beaches of Barbados, with the peak season between June and September. An adult female will nest every 2-4 years, coming up on shore between 3-5 times per season to lay eggs. She will nest on or near the same beach where she was born 20-30 years earlier. Hawksbills prefer to nest at night, well above
