The great hammerhead is a large, solitary predator of warm coastal seas. Its populations have fallen steeply because of fishing, and it is Critically Endangered.
Interesting facts
- It is the largest of the hammerhead sharks.
- It uses its head to pin stingrays to the seabed.
- Wide-set eyes give it excellent binocular vision in front.
- Great hammerheads often swim tilted on one side, which may save energy.
- It is particularly vulnerable to dying when caught on hooks.
- Its fins are highly valued in the shark fin trade.
Behaviour
Great hammerheads are mostly solitary and hunt near the seabed at dawn and dusk.
Breeding and young
Females give birth to litters of about 6 to 40 pups every two years.
Threats and conservation
Overfishing for fins and meat and bycatch in fisheries.
Where to see it
- Bimini, Bahamas (seasonal diving)
- Jupiter, Florida
- Galápagos (Wolf and Darwin islands) for other hammerhead species
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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