Hawksbill turtle conservation in Qatar

The critically endangered hawksbill turtle is "threatened by the loss of nesting and feeding habitats, excessive egg collection, fishing-related mortality, pollution and coastal development. The wildlife trade also plays a significant role in their endangerment. Given their beautiful, spotted shell, Hawksbill scales are still widely used and polished into decorative and functional objects. Currently, the turtles are believed to be the most endangered of the seven species of sea turtle." Between 2014 and 2020, the Hawksbill populations in Qatar dropped by 57%. "For that reason, experts and researchers in Qatar have stepped in to help save the turtles through adopting programmes and plans to guarantee their protection, sustainability and growth . . . To ensure the nesting process is successful and safe for the endangered species, Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change mobilses all efforts every year to protect the hawksbill turtles during the hatching season . . . Since 2019, the ministry has treated hundreds of injuries before returning them to the sea. In the last three years, 31,586 baby turtles were safely released into the ocean. The year 2020 hit a record of 119 nests, with 9,416 baby turtles released in the season alone," an unprecedented record in Hawksbill conservation.