Hammerkop

The Hammerkop is a dusky brown water bird about the size of a cattle egret--about 20 inches long. It has a superficial res...

The Hammerkop is a dusky brown water bird about the size of a cattle egret--about 20 inches long. It has a superficial resemblance to both herons and storks. It is neither, but rather a distinct species in a separate family. Its thick square crest is the origin of its name. Hammerkop means hammerhead in Dutch. It has black legs and a black bill tipped with hook. The birds short tail and large wings enable it to soar and glide easily, which it does with its head stretched forward. Sexes are alike. The Hammerkop vocalizes with a series of shrill piping whistles. When several birds are communicating, the noise is loud and distracting.