Hawksbill Turtle

 Leighanna Weems                                                                                                                         Weems 1

Professor Foster 

ENG 111 2WF 

8 April 2023  

Hawksbill Turtle 

           Hawksbill sea turtles get their name from their distinct pointed beak, which they use to extract their food from coral reefs throughout the East African coast. They feed primarily on sea sponges and anemones, contributing towards healthier coral reef ecosystems. Without the Hawksbill sea turtles, fish would not have access to the reef to hunt for their food. The ecosystem is influenced and controlled primarily by sea turtles, which is why they are of cultural significance.    

            Unfortunately, the Hawksbill sea turtles are considered critically endangered due to wildlife trading and habitat loss. The biggest threat is wildlife trading, and the African government has set laws in place making it illegal to hunt sea turtles in hopes of counteracting the threat. Despite national regulations, sea turtles continue to be hunted for their unique shells. Their shells are commonly used to make dishware and jewelry in exchange for money or food. The biggest way we can help the Hawksbill sea turtles is through educating the public and supporting legitimate organizations that provide alternative income sources for local sea turtle hunters. 

A Hawksbill sea turtle resting on the shore 

  

Weems 2 

Work Cited 

(Image) “Hawksbill Turtle.” WWF, World Wildlife Fund, https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/hawksbill-turtle.