Al-lith: Endangered hawksbill turtles have found a sanctuary in the Four Sisters Islands in Al-Lith Governorate-Marmar, Dohrab, Malathu, and Jadir-as they utilize these islands for feeding, breeding, and nesting. The islands provide a thriving ecosystem consisting of coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangroves, and serene sandy beaches that are ideal for adult turtles to nest before their hatchlings embark on their journey to the open sea.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the Four Sisters Islands represent the largest recorded sea turtle nesting site within Saudi waters of the Red Sea, with over 2,500 turtle nests documented. The hawksbill turtle, scientifically known as Eretmochelys imbricata, is the primary species observed here and is listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species.
Hawksbill turtles are named for their narrow, pointed beaks, reminiscent of hawks, and are characterized by their intricate overlapping shell scutes and strong front flippers, which are well-adapted for marine navigation. The diverse ecosystems and natural habitats of the Red Sea islands ensure crucial nesting conditions, supporting an ancient evolutionary journey that has spanned millions of years.