Hawksbill turtle

Photo: Kevin Bryant · CC BY-NC-SA

One of the ocean's most visually striking reptiles, recognisable by its narrow, pointed beak and richly patterned shell. Hawksbills feed primarily on sponges, making them a keystone species on coral reefs — their grazing prevents sponges from overgrowing and smothering coral. Critically endangered due to historical shell trade and ongoing egg harvesting; global populations have partially recovered in protected areas. Their presence at Punta Sal, foraging among the elkhorn stands, is a sign that the trophic structure of the reef remains intact.