Hamerkop
Scopus umbretta
About the Hamerkop
Geographic Range:
Class: Aves
Order: Pelecaniformes
Family: Scopidae
Genus: Scopus
Species: umbretta
Hamerkops, named for their distinctive hammer-shaped heads, build the largest domed nests of any bird. These massive nests can weigh up to 55 pounds and are comprised of any available vegetation along with any colorful decorative material. Accessible only by a small, narrow entrance hole, the birds fly straight into their nests. In the wild, the nests attract a wide array of other wildlife who will either push the hamerkops out of their nest or take up residence after the birds have left.
While anatomically hamerkops share characteristics with both storks and herons, due to their unique attributes these distinct birds are placed in their own family – the Scopidae. Hamerkops, the subject of many myths, are plentiful across sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar, and as long as there is access to water they can be found in a range of habitats including forests, savannahs and semi-deserts.
These wading birds forage for food, mainly frogs and fish, in shallow water. When looking for fish, they spread their wings creating an umbrella effect to attract and more easily catch fish.
You Can Find This Animal in the Tropical Forest
Committed to Conservation
Zoo New England participates in the hamerkop Species Survival Plan. By sharing research and knowledge, participating institutions work together to establish guidelines that best ensure the health of captive populations, and with success, the survival of endangered species.
