Hammerhead Sharks

Hammerhead sharks are easy to spot because of their unusual head shape. Their heads are wide and flat, shaped like a hammer. This strange shape actually helps them be better hunters. There are nine different species of hammerhead sharks.

The Amazing Hammer Head

The hammerhead's wide head is called a cephalofoil. It gives the shark better vision because its eyes are on each end. The head also has special sensors that detect electrical signals from prey hiding in the sand. This helps hammerheads find stingrays buried in the ocean floor.

Schooling Sharks

Hammerhead sharks are unusual because they sometimes swim in large groups called schools. Hundreds of hammerheads may gather together during the day. At night, they split up to hunt alone. Scientists are still studying why they form these large groups.

Fun Facts

• A hammerhead shark can see above and below itself at the same time.
• Hammerheads sometimes swim in schools of over 500 sharks.
• The great hammerhead can grow up to 20 feet long.

Did You Know?

Hammerhead sharks use their wide heads like a metal detector! They swing their heads side to side over the sandy ocean floor to detect stingrays hiding underneath.