During phase 1 of the project, a study was carried out specifically on the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) in order to map the distribution, areas of concentration and migration corridors of this species in the Wider Caribbean Region.

The study combines data covering an area from the Caribbean to southern Brazil and describes the distribution of feeding areas and migratory corridors. The data used was provided by 16 countries and overseas territories and represents 258 satellite tracks, of which 252 were selected.

The results show feeding areas in neritic habitats (the shallow marine area extending from low tide to the edge of the continental shelf) throughout the study region, with several areas of high density, notably in the Leeward Islands of the Eastern Caribbean archipelago, the Nicaragua Rise to the northeast of Nicaragua and Honduras, North-west of the Yucatan Peninsula (Mexico), and adjacent to the easternmost region of Brazil. High connectivity of migration corridors has also been documented.

This study provides a new and detailed overview of regional patterns of hawksbill turtle use. It will then be cross-referenced with a study of fisheries in the Wider Caribbean Region to identify areas where hawksbill turtle habitats overlap with fishing areas.

The aim will then be to consider possible recommendations for avoiding negative interactions between this species and fishing activities, in particular to limit by-catches, which not only cause the death of the animals but also damage fishing nets.

This cartography was produced under a public tender awarded to the Network for the Conservation of Marine Turtles in the Wider Caribbean Region WIDECAST.