Inter-nesting area use, migratory routes, and foraging grounds for hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) in the Western Caribbean

<p>The dataset provides tracking and habitat utilization data for hawksbill turtles (<em>Eretmochelys imbricata</em>) in the Western Caribbean. These data were collected through satellite telemetry, with transmitters deployed on 15 nesting turtles at four key sites: Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama, between 2000 and 2021.</p>

<h3>Context:</h3>

<p>Hawksbill turtles are critically endangered due to habitat loss, bycatch, and illegal harvesting. The dataset aims to fill knowledge gaps on their inter-nesting, migratory, and foraging behaviors, essential for developing effective conservation strategies.</p>

<h3>Data Collection Methods:</h3>

<p>Satellite transmitters were attached to nesting females, and their movements were monitored to record location, direction, and habitat utilization. The data were processed using advanced statistical and geospatial tools to estimate core habitat areas and migration corridors.</p>

<h3>Objective:</h3>

<p>The primary objective of the dataset is to identify critical habitats (e.g., inter-nesting areas, foraging grounds), migration routes, and the influence of ocean currents on turtle movement. This information supports the development of conservation plans to mitigate threats and promote population recovery.</p>

<h3>Research Question:</h3>

<ul>
<li>How do hawksbill turtles utilize inter-nesting, migratory, and foraging habitats in the Western Caribbean?</li>
<li>What are the spatial and temporal patterns of their movements?</li>
<li>How can this information inform multinational conservation efforts?</li>
</ul>