Hawksbill Turtle
Scientific name Eretmochelys imbricata
The Hawksbill Turtle is one of the most beautiful and distinctive sea turtles found in tropical coral reef ecosystems. It is easily recognised by its narrow, pointed “hawk-like” beak and the overlapping (imbricated) scutes on its shell.
Adults typically grow to around 70–90 cm in shell length. Their beautifully patterned amber and brown carapace once made them heavily targeted for the tortoiseshell trade — one of the main reasons they are now classified globally as critically endangered.
Around Koh Tao, Hawksbill Turtles are regularly seen on coral reefs between 3–25 metres. They are often found methodically feeding among coral heads, overhangs and reef slopes.
Unlike Green Turtles, Hawksbills have a sharper beak designed for extracting food from tight reef crevices. They are generally calm and tolerant of divers who maintain respectful distance.
Find Hawksbill Turtle at...
Divemaster's tip
If you see a turtle feeding, stay low and to the side rather than above it. Avoid blocking its path to the surface.
Never chase or attempt to touch — turtles may leave the area if stressed. Calm, still observation often leads to longer encounters.
What do they eat?
Hawksbill Turtles primarily feed on sponges, along with soft corals, anemones and small invertebrates.
By controlling sponge growth, they play a vital role in maintaining healthy coral reef ecosystems in Koh Tao and throughout the Indo-Pacific.
