The hamerkop is an African wetland bird whose flat crest makes its head look like a hammer. Pairs build a large, domed nest.
Its body is brown, and a long, flat crest extends behind the head.
Hamerkops hunt frogs and fish in shallow water. Their hammer-shaped profile is distinctive, as are their large roofed breeding nests.
Pairs build domed nests with a side entrance. Other birds may attach smaller nests, while birds, mammals and reptiles can use the structure, including after it is abandoned.
Nests can be reused and enlarged. Nest sites and feeding waters both support breeding; pesticide use and sewage pollution can degrade wetland water quality.
IUCN Red List (conservation institution account) · Least Concern · Global
Potential pressures include pesticides and sewage degrading wetland water quality, and hunting for traditional medicine in Nigeria. Zoos cooperate in managed population care through a Species Survival Plan.