Hawksbill turtle in Bali Indonesia

Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) is an endangered sea turtle belonging to the family Cheloniidae. This turtle is the only species in its genus. This species has a worldwide distribution, with two subspecies found in the Atlantic and the Pacific. E. imbricata imbricata is a subspecies in the Atlantic, while E. imbricata bissa is a subspecies in the Indo-Pacific region.

Hawksbill turtles look similar to other turtles. These turtles generally have a flat body shape, with a carapace for protection, and fins resembling arms that are adapted for swimming in the open ocean. E. imbricata differs from other sea turtles that are very easily distinguished by its curved bill with a prominent upper lip, and the saw-like appearance of the edges of its shell. Hawksbill turtle shells can change color, according to the temperature of the water. Although these sea turtles spend half their lives in the open ocean, they also occasionally visit shallow lagoons and coral reefs.