Animal Guide

Great Hammerhead

3 destinations · 3 states

Native Range: Tropical and warm temperate oceans worldwide

Great hammerheads are easy to recognize once you see the unusually wide, hammer-shaped head. At an aquarium, watch one cruise past the glass and notice how the broad head moves almost as an extension of the body, with the eyes positioned far apart on either side. That unusual shape is thought to help the shark scan a wider area while hunting, and it also gives the head a distinctive sweeping motion as the animal moves. Great hammerheads can grow very large, yet their swimming can look remarkably smooth. The tail provides steady propulsion while the shark makes gentle adjustments with its fins. Look for one patrolling close to the bottom or circling through deeper parts of the habitat. Their diet includes fish and rays, and their broad heads are particularly well suited to searching along the seafloor. Found in warm and temperate seas around the world, great hammerheads often move through coastal waters as well as offshore areas.

Great Hammerhead

Where to see Great Hammerhead

3 destinations across 3 states

3 destinations

Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta, GA

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, SC

SeaWorld Orlando

Orlando, FL

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