The Galapagos hammerhead shark

The Galapagos Islands are considered Ecuador’s paradise, and not without reason! Warm sunshine, white sandy beaches, clear sea water and diverse plant species that bloom all year round. Animals that enrich and make unique both the overwater world and the underwater world! One of these underwater animals is the hammerhead shark. This fish, known for its shape and named after it, is also native to the Pacific Ocean of the Galapagos National Park.

The Galapagos hammerhead shark is not uncommon near the archipelago, often several hundred specimens can be spotted at the same time. They are unmistakably recognizable by their hammer-shaped head. The eyes are located on the outer sides of the “hammer”, which serves for a better visibility. In contrast to the white underside of the hammerhead shark, the upper side of the body is gray silver. In general, the body of this shark species is slender and is perfect for swimming with the current. Hammerheads have teeth in the shape of backward triangles, which are perfect for hunting. In addition, hammerhead sharks have the hunting technique of turning 360 degrees at lightning speed. For this reason, they can surprise and catch their unsuspecting prey. In addition, hammerhead sharks have electrical sensors that help them hunt. With the help of these sensors, they can sense and smell prey, making it easier to track other animals.

Baby sharks are about 50 cm long, while adult specimens can reach a length of more than 4 meters. Sharks are generally harmless to humans. Worldwide, there is no known fatality caused by a hammerhead shark. To survive, the animals require a constant flow of water. They draw oxygen from the water into their bodies and breathe through their gills. On land, they can only survive for two minutes, then they suffocate.