Rare Hybrid Sea Turtle First Tagged in Florida Now Spotted in Bahamian Waters

Dolly2 profile image from OCEARCH

A rare sea turtle hybrid, a cross between a loggerhead and hawksbill, has been tracked swimming off the coast of Great Abaco Island today at 11:35 a.m., according to data from OCEARCH. The adult female turtle, named Dolly2, initially pinged in Florida waters earlier this year on April 23, 2024, and has been actively tracked ever since.

Measuring three feet by three inches and weighing 219 pounds, Dolly2 is a unique specimen, combining characteristics of both species. Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are known for their powerful jaws, while hawksbills (Eretmochelys imbricata) are recognized for their sharp, beak-like mouths and vibrant shell patterns. The combination of these species makes Dolly2 a rare sight in the wild.

OCEARCH, an organization dedicated to tracking and studying marine animals, has been monitoring Dolly2's movements through satellite tagging technology. Her latest ping places her near the Bahamas, where she appears to be traveling after several months of moving through Florida's coastal waters.

Sea turtle hybrids like Dolly2 are extremely rare and offer scientists an opportunity to learn more about the migration and behavior of mixed-species turtles. OCEARCH’s tracking efforts contribute valuable data toward the conservation of endangered sea turtle populations and understanding the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.

As Dolly2 continues her journey, conservationists and marine biologists remain hopeful that the tracking data will provide new insights into the lives of these incredible creatures and the environmental challenges they face.
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For more information on Dolly2 and OCEARCH’s efforts, visit OCEARCH's website.