Hawksbill Sea Turtles in Hawai’i Island’s Harbors

We contributed to a dataset published by Cheryl King of Hawaiian Hawksbill Conservation for the 44th International Sea Turtle Symposium. It was held for the first time in Kailua Kona from February 28 to March 6, 2026.

Sightings included 17 Hawksbill sea turtles in Kawaihae Harbor and 18 in Honokohau Harbor, totaling 35. This accounts for about a third of the 115 Hawksbills cataloged around Hawai’i Island. Of these, 40.9% were injured, and five had died.

While harbors are likely a preferred habitat for young Hawksbills, they face increased risks from human-related threats.

Here is the poster presented:

PDF: