Hammer Head Shark
| There are nine types of hammerhead: scalloped hammerheads are among the three species dangerous to humans. The others are the 20-foot-long great hammerhead and the smooth hammerhead. Scalloped Hammerheads can grow to about 14 feet, and often gather during the day in schools numbering in the hundreds. They swim in relatively warm water. They feed primarily on rays, fish, squid, snails small sharks and shrimp. Hammerheads are the most recognized shark swimming in our waters. |
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unlikely to attack people, but considered dangerous due to its predatory nature and its size |
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eyes and nostrils are far apart, giving it a "hammerhead" appearance and allowing the shark to extend the range of its senses. |
The Hammerhead Sharks are born with their head bent backward so they don't get stuck in the birth canal. They range in length from five feet to over seventeen feet. The nostrils, as well as the eyes, are located on the outer edges of the head. As the hammerhead swims, it swings its head back and forth through the water, possibly increasing the chances of detecting food. The head acts like a wing which makes the shark more agile in the water and also creates a wide field of vision. The Hammerhead can accelerate quickly when attacking because of a streamlined body and powerful muscles.