Hawksbill Sea Turtles and Wildlife, Abu Dhabi

Hawksbill sea turtles

The critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle is swimming at Saadiyat beach!
The critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle is swimming at Saadiyat beach!

The biologically known Eretmochelys Imbricata otherwise commonly known as the Hawksbill sea turtle is an endangered specie. They belong to the family Chaloniidae and are spread globally among tropical and subtropical marine and estuary ecosystems. 

Though the turtles have beautiful appearing outer shells, they are nonetheless similar to what other turtles would look like. With a flattened body shape, a protective carapace, and flipper-like limbs, the Hawksbill turtles are of the same shape and form as turtles that are found anywhere, Globally.

Description

Hawksbill turtles usually weigh almost around 80 kg/180 pounds during their adulthood. Factual evidence provides us an exemplary case of a turtle of the same gene weighing almost 127kg/180 pounds. They grow into sizes of almost up to 1 meter, and their shell possesses an amber background with irregular combinations of light and dark streaks.

Though some characteristics of the Hawksbill turtles may be similar to that of other turtles around the globe, however, some characteristics prove otherwise. Such as, the head of a Hawksbill turtle ends in a beak-like mouth. Therein, it is also known as Hawksbill due to the form of its mouth. The forelimbs possess visible claws on each flipper and last but not least, its beak is more sharply pronounced.

The species are said to be predominantly found in the tropical regions of Africa, India, the Pacific, and the Atlantic ocean. Though some of the species are found near the Saadiyat beach, Abu Dhabi is amongst the endangered species of the Chaloniidae family.

Saadiyat beach: home to Hawksbill sea turtles

Baby turtles making their way to the waters on the Saadiyat beach!
Baby turtles making their way to the waters on the Saadiyat beach!

The mesmerizing Saadiyat beach that stretches across 9 long kilometers possesses several Hawksbill turtle nests. Usually, the nest contains around 90-100 eggs, each nest. Though, due to the fact that the particular specie is endangered, the authorities have taken several steps towards care for natural habitat.

The beach consists of pedestrian access that has been directed through pedestrian boardwalks, ultimately preventing people from walking through the sensitive habitat that is home to the already endangered specie living there in such a high-traffic area. Furthermore, lighting in the area is reduced at night to further aid the baby turtle's orientation.

Explore the natural habitat in Abu Dhabi

Apart from its shimmering architecture and beautiful high-rise buildings, Abu Dhabi boasts beautiful wildlife scenery. There are a ton of activities on offer that concedes with the wildlife and parks featured for tourists who love to go outdoors and explore nature. Some of the distinct activities on offer are as follows.

Emirates Park Zoo

The beautiful Minaret-shaped entrance to Emirates Park Zoo!
The beautiful Minaret-shaped entrance to Emirates Park Zoo!

The Zoo is home to numerous animals which includes a 300+ kg Siberian bear, a pair of white Tigers, Hippos, Elephants, and an aerial play area spanning across the petting Zoo. Furthermore, the Zoo consists of 2 circuits and over 50 obstacles to zip, slide and climb through. 

Sir Bani Yas Island

Explore the wildlife of Abu Dhabi at Sir Bani Yas Island!
Explore the wildlife of Abu Dhabi at Sir Bani Yas Island!

The Island possesses beautiful wildlife habitats for giraffes, Cheetahs, Oryx, and numerous more species. Though the island is not only limited to wildlife but spans across numerous archeological sites too, which includes a 1,400 years old Christian monastery. It is highly suggested to book a 4x4 ride and take a stroll around nature entailing picturesque areas.

Saadiyat Beach: Tanline, Turtles, and Dolphins

The Saadiyat beach possesses turtles and dolphins frolicking around in the day-time!
The Saadiyat beach possesses turtles and dolphins frolicking around in the day-time!

The habitat of Hawksbill turtle conservation has been able to deliver 650 eggs that have successfully hatched on the Saadiyat since 2010. Though the beach has been carefully planned alongside tourism to conserve its wildlife, there is actually more to the whole beauty of dolphins frolicking in the daytime.

Abu Dhabi Falcon hospital

Experience the Worlds largest bird aviary at Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital!
Experience the Worlds largest bird aviary at Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital!


The area consists of Abu Dhabi's natural bird reserve. The building treats over 11,000 birds including Falcons which are considered to be the National bird of Abu Dhabi. The facility is situated almost 45 minutes drive from the city and you may plan your visit to experience numerous beautiful birds and yes; under supervision.

Final conclusion

The beautifully planned and crafted areas of Abu Dhabi include but are not limited to wildlife. Furthermore, the areas can be planned to visit if you are a fan of wildlife and natural scenery. The Nation is sentimental about its wildlife. Therefore, anyone visiting may be able to find well-preserved wildlife including;

  • Emirates Park Zoo
  • Sir Bani Yas island
  • Abu Dhabi coastline
  • The Mangrove National park and Anantara Eastern Mangrove hotel
  • Jubail Mangrove park
  • Al Ain Zoo and Al Ain Safari
  • Saadiyat Island and the Hawksbill turtle conservation program
  • Al-Wathba Wetland Reserve
  • Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
  • Rub' al Khali Desert
  • Arabian Saluki Centre

Therefore, it is highly suggested for tourists visiting the region experience the wildlife and nature apart from the manmade beauty, malls, etc. Book your trip to Abu Dhabi and experience the season wildlife of the region with your friends or family.

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