The hawksbill sea turtle is a small to medium sea turtle with a very attractively colored shell of thick overlapping scales. Hawksbill turtles have a distinct, hawk-like beak. The hawksbill turtle is a shy tropical reef dwelling species that feeds primarily on sponges.
Commercial exploitation is the major cause of the continued decline of the hawksbill sea turtle.
There is a continuing demand for the hawksbill's shell as well as other products including leather, oil, perfume, and cosmetics.