Hamerkop

More Information

Physical Description

Hamerkops have monochromatic brown plumage with hints of iridescent purple. These wading birds have a darkly colored, long, flat bill that is slightly hooked at the tip. They use their sturdy bill to catch fish, frogs, rodents, and other small animals.

Interesting Fact 1

Hamerkops build relatively large nests that can support the weight of an adult human.

Interesting Fact 2

They were named for their distinctive head, which combines a thick bill in the front and a pointed wedge of feathers in the back.

Interesting Fact 3

They perform “false mounting,” where one bird stands on top of another to display dominance without engaging in copulation.