Quick answer
Hammerhead Sharks (Sphyrnidae) are fishs found across multiple regions. The shark with a head like a hammer. Adults typically weigh roughly 230 kg (506 lb), reach speeds of Around 40 km/h (25 mph) in bursts, and live 20–30 years or more. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Warm coastal and open waters worldwide, in temperate and tropical seas of all major oceans.
Key takeaway
Hammerhead Sharks (Sphyrnidae) are fishs found across multiple regions. The shark with a head like a hammer. Adults typically weigh roughly 230 kg (506 lb), reach speeds of Around 40 km/h (25 mph) in bursts, and live 20–30 years or more. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Warm coastal and open waters worldwide, in temperate and tropical seas of all major oceans.
Hammerhead Shark overview
Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrnidae) is a fish listed here as Critically Endangered. Typical weight about 230 kg; lifespan around 20–30 years or more.
Hammerhead Shark ecology
Diet: Carnivore. Habitat: Warm coastal and open oceans worldwide. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Hammerhead Sharks and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild hammerhead sharks are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Critically Endangered. See the full Hammerhead Shark profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Hammerhead Sharks inhabit Warm coastal and open waters worldwide, in temperate and tropical seas of all major oceans. Their preferred habitat includes warm coastal and open oceans worldwide, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across mult
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult hammerhead sharks typically measure about 4 m in length and weigh roughly 230 kg (506 lb). They can sprint at Around 40 km/h (25 mph) in bursts when hunting or escaping predators. Hammerhead Sharks are known for the shark with a head like a hammer — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Hammerhead Shark FAQs
What are key facts about hammerhead sharks?
Hammerhead Sharks (Sphyrnidae) are fishs found across multiple regions. The shark with a head like a hammer. Adults typically weigh roughly 230 kg (506 lb), reach speeds of Around 40 km/h (25 mph) in bursts, and live 20–30 years or more. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Warm coastal and open waters worldwide, in temperate and tropical seas of all major oceans.
What is the scientific name of the hammerhead shark?
Sphyrnidae — used in research and conservation listings for hammerhead sharks.
What do hammerhead sharks eat?
Hammerhead Sharks are described as carnivores, with seasonal and regional variation in Warm coastal and open oceans worldwide.
Where do hammerhead sharks live?
They are associated with Warm coastal and open oceans worldwide. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of hammerhead sharks?
Listed in our guides as Critically Endangered. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.