Saint Kitts and Nevis’ beaches and nearshore reefs support important marine life despite the islands’ small size. Local nesting sites and coastal habitats are key for species that migrate through the Caribbean or breed on these shores.
There are 2 Endangered Species in Saint Kitts and Nevis, ranging from Green sea turtle to Hawksbill sea turtle. For each species the table below lists Scientific name, IUCN status, Primary habitat & location so you can quickly see identification and threat details — you’ll find below.
How threatened are the Green and Hawksbill sea turtles around Saint Kitts and Nevis?
Both species face similar pressures: loss of nesting beaches from development and erosion, light pollution that disrupts hatchlings, accidental capture in fishing gear, and marine pollution. Hawksbills are especially vulnerable due to shell trade and reef degradation, while greens are affected by coastal changes and boat strikes; local monitoring and protected nesting areas help reduce some risks.
What practical actions can visitors take to support turtle conservation?
Follow local rules for beaches (no lights at night, keep distance from nests), avoid buying shell products, dispose of plastic properly, and report injured or nesting turtles to authorities or conservation groups. Supporting community-led protection programs and responsible tour operators also aids long-term recovery.
Endangered Species in Saint Kitts and Nevis
| Common name | Scientific name | IUCN status | Primary habitat & location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawksbill sea turtle | Eretmochelys imbricata | CR (2018) | Coral reefs and sandy nesting beaches; Nevis and St Kitts coastal waters |
| Green sea turtle | Chelonia mydas | EN (2018) | Seagrass beds, coastal feeding grounds and nesting beaches; St Kitts and Nevis |
Images and Descriptions
Hawksbill sea turtle
A medium-sized sea turtle with patterned shell, notable for nesting on Nevis and St Kitts beaches. Critically endangered due to shell trade, egg harvesting, and reef loss; local protection includes nesting patrols, beach monitoring, and regional legal protection
Green sea turtle
Large herbivorous sea turtle that feeds on seagrass and algae and nests on island beaches. Endangered from bycatch, coastal development, and egg poaching; local nesting monitoring and international protections help, but populations remain vulnerable in Saint Kitts and Nevis
