Back to photostream

Hamerkop

also known as Hammerkop, Hammerkopf, Hammerhead, Hammerhead Stork, Umbrette, Umber Bird, Tufted Umber, or Anvilhead, is a medium-sized wading bird. The shape of its head with a curved bill and crest at the back is reminiscent of a hammer, hence its name. The Hamerkop's behavior is unlike other birds. One unusual feature is that up to ten birds join in "ceremonies" in which they run circles around each other, all calling loudly, raising their crests, fluttering their wings. Another is "false mounting", in which one bird stands on top of another and appears to mount it, but they may not be mates and do not copulate.

205 views
0 faves
0 comments
Uploaded on May 27, 2013
Taken on August 29, 2011