Hammerhead Shark Facts
Hammerhead sharks are among the most recognizable sharks in the ocean. Their unique head shape has fascinated scientists and ocean lovers for centuries.
Why the Hammer-Shaped Head?
The distinctive "cephalofoil" (hammer-shaped head) provides several advantages:
1. Enhanced Sensory Abilities
- Wider electroreceptor spread: Detect prey better
- Ampullae of Lorenzini across entire head
- Can detect electrical signals from buried stingrays
- 10x more sensitive than other sharks
2. Superior Vision
- 360-degree vertical vision
- Eyes on each end of the hammer
- Excellent depth perception
- Can see above and below simultaneously
3. Improved Maneuverability
- Head acts like a hydrofoil
- Sharper turns when hunting
- Better lift during swimming
Hammerhead Species
| Species | Max Size | Head Width | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Hammerhead | 20 ft | 3 ft | Endangered |
| Scalloped Hammerhead | 14 ft | 2 ft | Critically Endangered |
| Smooth Hammerhead | 16 ft | 2.5 ft | Vulnerable |
| Bonnethead | 5 ft | 1 ft | Least Concern |
Diet and Hunting
Primary Prey
- Stingrays (favorite food)
- Other rays and skates
- Squid and octopus
- Fish and crustaceans
Hunting Technique
- Sweep head across sandy bottom
- Detect buried prey via electroreception
- Pin stingrays down with wide head
- Bite and consume
Social Behavior
Unlike most sharks, hammerheads are:
- Highly social
- Form schools of 100+ individuals
- Migrate together over long distances
- Schools often dominated by females
Are Hammerheads Dangerous?
Hammerheads are generally not dangerous to humans:
- Only 17 unprovoked attacks recorded (ISAF)
- Zero fatalities from hammerhead attacks
- Usually shy around divers
- Will typically swim away if approached