hawksbill

Everyday

A hawksbill (hawksbill turtle) is a sea turtle with a narrow beak curved like a hawk's, living on coral reefs in warm seas; it is critically endangered. tree →

In the lessons

In science and geography lessons on oceans, coral reefs and endangered animals (Great Barrier Reef, Caribbean). Phrases: hawksbill turtle, hawksbill sea turtle.

Examples

• The hawksbill turtle eats sponges on the coral reef. tree →
• Hawksbills are critically endangered. tree →
• People used to make tortoiseshell combs from hawksbill shells. tree →
• We saw a hawksbill while snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. tree →
• The hawksbill gets its name from its pointed beak. tree →
• It is illegal to buy products made from hawksbill shell. tree →

Note

One word. Plural hawksbills. Real tortoiseshell came from hawksbill turtles; now it is banned in international trade.