The Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

     Often called the Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata dwells mostly in tropical marine environments along the coast. Juvenile Hawksbill Sea Turtles begin their life on sandy beaches where they hatch within a hole created sixty days previous by the mother turtle. Their intrepid journey commences as they scatter to the sea, avoiding predation by various sea birds and crabs. With maturation, the Hawksbill sea turtle will reach lengths of about 70 to 80 centimeters and weigh between 45 to 68 kilograms. They are among the tiniest marine turtles and possess a narrow head and a beaked mouth which resembles a hawk's bill.
     These small omnivorous turtles mainly eat crustaceans, sponges, anemones, and mollusks. Unfortunately, they are listed as Endangered within the United States and Critically Endangered internationally. The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is commercially sought after for of its ornate shell which is often used to create jewelry and other accessories.
    Thus, it was astonishing when I happened upon one during this past week while snorkeling. Its small body blended well into the sea fans and corals, as it effortlessly paddled through the water. As I swam beside the turtle, it didn't seem to mind. Occasionally, it would look up curiously at me, possibly wondering "who," or rather "what" I was. Swimming with this turtle absolutely made my day and my week. It's quite disappointing to understand the rarity of seeing a Hawksbill Sea Turtle in its natural habitat. What if this would be the last time I'd see one? What if they were to go extinct? Occurrences like this really ignite my desire to pursue a marine biology - related career and care for the ocean.

http://www.conserveturtles.org/seaturtleinformation.php?page=hawksbill

http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/reptiles/hawksbill-turtle/

My cute swimming buddy!
Photo Credit: Jessica Valek