The Hammerhead Shark

Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna zygaena) -- Although they prefer to remain in the open ocean, the Common Hammerhead is one of the largest sharks in the Delaware-Chesapeake Bay area and is a familiar sight for anglers along the coast in summer.

With an average size of 2 to 4 feet, hammerheads can grow to as long as 6 to 13 feet.

The hammerhead is easily recognizable since it is one of the strangest looking creatures in the water. Peculiar projections on both sides of the head give it the appearance of a flattened hammer. The shark's eyes and nostrils are at the lateral tips of the extensions.

During the days of heavy commercial shark fishing, hammerheads were in demand for use in fish meal, liver oil and leather products.

Sharks Common to the Delaware-Maryland Coast

• The Common Hammerhead Shark
  
• The Atlantic Mako Shark
  
• The Sand Shark
  
• The Smooth Dogfish Shark
  
• The Spiny Dogfish Shark
  
• The Sandbar Shark

Number of attacks in Delaware from the International Shark Attack File