Critically Endangered Hawksbill Turtle Hatchlings Released in Singapore

Forty-two critically endangered hawksbill turtle hatchlings have been released into the sea at Sisters’ Islands Marine Park in Singapore following a conservation effort by the National Parks Board (NParks).

The hatchlings emerged from a clutch of 97 eggs laid in June on Big Sister’s Island, close to the high-tide waterline. Concern that the nest could be flooded led NParks to carefully relocate the eggs to the turtle hatchery on Small Sister’s Island when they were around six weeks old.

The hatchlings emerged from the relocated nest and were released into the waters around Sisters’ Islands on 13 and 14 August.

It was the third hawksbill clutch to hatch at Sisters’ Islands Marine Park this year. As of 14 August, a total of 294 turtle hatchlings had emerged from the hatchery, while NParks had recorded 59 live turtle sightings and 25 nests during the 2026 nesting season.

Before their release, the hatchlings were assessed and measurements including their weight and number of scutes, or scales, were recorded for health monitoring and research.

Hawksbill turtles typically visit Singapore’s shores between May and October to nest. The species is classified as critically endangered and can take around 20 years to reach maturity.

NParks has been running a programme to conserve Singapore’s two native marine turtle species since 2016, with beach patrols and other measures carried out during the nesting season.

Photo: Jane Morgan

Source: The Straits Times