Nature Field Guide
Hawksbill Sea Turtle
- Spanish name
- Tortuga carey
- Scientific name
- Eretmochelys imbricata
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What clues help us recognize this reptile?”
Tati: “Let’s notice its shape, markings and habitat from a respectful distance.”
Species overview
About the Hawksbill Sea Turtle
The hawksbill has a narrow head with a curved beak. Its shell commonly shows overlapping scutes and a serrated rear edge. Amber, brown and golden patterns are beautiful, but color alone is not a complete identification.
This marine turtle occurs on both Costa Rican coasts, including reef-associated habitats. Protecting it means leaving the animal, eggs and shell products out of our hands. Follow guides’ instructions and give swimming or nesting turtles room to continue their natural behavior.
Identification
Key Features of the Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Narrow hooked beak
Overlapping patterned shell scutes
Often a serrated rear shell edge
Habitat & range
Pacific and Caribbean coastal waters and reefs; documented sites include Cahuita and Tortuguero.
Local observations
Native reptile recorded in Costa Rica. Presence varies with suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Nesting visits depend on the beach, season and current rules. Use an authorized local guide and ask about current conditions.
Conservation & care
Never touch, chase, ride or feed a sea turtle. Keep clear of nesting females, eggs and hatchlings. Follow local beach rules and authorized guides; avoid lights and flash photography during nesting observations. Leave shells and wildlife products out of your purchases.
Threats & pressures
Protect nesting beaches and marine habitats. Reduce plastic waste, avoid disturbing wildlife and do not buy turtle products.
Observation activity
Draw the head outlines of a hawksbill and a green turtle. Compare them without relying on shell color.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Pacific · Guanacaste · Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · South Pacific · Guanacaste · Limón · Puntarenas · Cahuita · Tortuguero