The Hammerhead

There’s a Hamerkop flying towards me with something huge and fishy in its beak. Hamerkops look like ducks or weird herons, but they are more closely related to the Pelicans and the strange-looking Shoebill.

The name Hamerkop means Hammerhead. They have an elongated crest behind their head which makes their head look like the head of a hammer. Their scientific name is Scopus umbretta.

I’m not sure what its prey is. It appears to have segments on its body, but its head looks more like a catfish.

It’s going to make a satisfying and nutritious meal, whatever it is.

What a wonderful flypast.