Scalloped Hammerhead Shark

Scalloped Hammerhead Shark

Sphyrna lewini

Critically Endangered
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DESCRIPTION

The Scalloped Hammerhead Shark is a large, migratory shark easily recognized by the central indentation on its hammer-shaped head. These sharks are found globally in warm temperate and tropical coastal and oceanic waters, often forming large schools around seamounts and islands. They are primarily nocturnal foragers, feeding on a diverse diet of bony fishes, cephalopods, crustaceans, and smaller sharks and rays.

Max Length 4.3 m
Max Weight 161 kg
Lifespan 30 - 55 years
Habitat Coastal zone, deep water, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 1240 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Cathemeral
Social Behavior Schooling
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Scalloped Hammerhead Shark

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Scalloped Hammerhead Shark

Range

Where Scalloped Hammerhead Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Scalloped Hammerhead Shark

Where can you see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark?

The Scalloped Hammerhead Shark can be seen at 36 dive destinations in 10 countries. The best spots include Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Apo Reef (Philippines), Ari Atoll (Maldives), Baja California Sur (Mexico), and Brothers Islands (Egypt).

What is the best time to see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark?

Sightings of the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark peak at different times depending on the destination: Aliwal Shoal from October to March, Apo Reef from November to March, Ari Atoll from March to May, and Baja California Sur from March to October.

Can you see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark all year round?

Yes. At Galapagos Islands, Gordon Rocks, and Kicker Rock, the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark at Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark in Ecuador?

In Ecuador, you can see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark at Galapagos Islands, Gordon Rocks, Kicker Rock, and Punta Vicente Roca.

Where can you see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark at Ari Atoll, Fuvahmulah, Vaavu Atoll, Addu Atoll, Baa Atoll, and North Male Atoll.

How big does the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark get?

The Scalloped Hammerhead Shark can reach up to 4.3 m in length and 161 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark live in?

The Scalloped Hammerhead Shark is found in these habitats: coastal zone, deep water, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark live?

The Scalloped Hammerhead Shark lives from the surface down to 1240 m.

What does the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark most active?

Active in irregular bursts around the clock, by day and by night alike. There is no single best hour to look for it.

How long does the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark live?

The Scalloped Hammerhead Shark lives 30 to 55 years.

What is the conservation status of the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark?

The Scalloped Hammerhead Shark is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Scalloped Hammerhead Shark. Spotted something that looks off?

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