turtles are returning to local waters.

The rare find of an adult hawksbill turtle, a member of an endangered species, is being investigated by Head Aquarist Ms Jennifer Gray-Conklin and Government Veterinarian Dr. Neil Burnie.

The turtle is believed to have been killed when it was hit by a boat's propeller.

Measuring more than two feet in length, it has a large wound in the left side of its shell.

Dr. Burnie said: "I would conclude that this turtle was killed as a result of an encounter with a boat's propeller.'' Ms Gray-Conklin said: "It is rare to find a fully grown adult hawksbill in Bermuda waters. It is the second most endangered species of turtle in the world. It is certainly the first one I have ever seen here.

"It could be anything from 50 to 100 years old. It is difficult to tell even if it is male or female without cutting into the shell. We will carry out a post mortem.'' Turtles have not bred in Bermuda waters since they were sought for food last century.

The major local population is young turtles that have arrived from breeding grounds and are feeding locally. Green turtles have been found in the Great Sound.

However the discovery of an adult hawksbill could cause some excitement especially if it is a female carrying eggs.

Ms Gray-Conklin said: "It could just be passing through local waters but we will know better when we have carried out the post mortem.'' The post mortem was being held up because the turtle had been frozen to prevent its deterioration.

TURTLE POST MORTEM -- Ms Jennifer Gray-Conklin and Dr. Neil Burnie with the hawksbill turtle found dead in the Great Sound.