Creature Of The Month

Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta)

The Hamerkop (Hammer-head in English) is named from the shape made by its crest and bill. The hamerkop is neither a stock nor a heron, but shows characters of both. It builds enormous domed nest of mud, sticks and grass in a tree.

Found throughout Africa south of the Sahara and Arabia. Seen on farm dams and any areas of water.

The Hamerkop forages by wading in shallow water, stirring the mud with its feet to disturb small fish and tadpoles. Sometimes

seen flying low over the water snatching food with its bill.