Hamerkop: Unique waterbird of East Africa

By Timothy Ijala

One bird that you are most likely to see on the shores of rivers, lakes and other water bodies in East

The Hamerkop can usually be seen foraging in shallow water

Africa is the Hamerkop. The name is as strange as the way the bird looks for it has a long bill and a crest that extends from its head making it look like a hammer hence the name hamerkop. It has other names like the Anvilhead, Hammerkop, Hammerkopf and Hammerhead stork among others. The plumage is mostly brown with a black bill for adult birds. But there is more to this water bird than just name and looks.

Unlike other birds the Hamerkop is unique in that it is the only bird that belongs to its family. The good news is that it is not an endangered species.

When breeding the bird builds a nest that can hold the weight of a man. The nest is built using materials that include sticks and mud. However the nest is not just for breeding purposes. This bird seems to have a fascination with nest building and may build more than one nest in a year. The nest can be built on a tree or even on the ground.

The Hamerkop usually feeds during the day alone or in pairs and its diet includes fish, insects and amphibians. It can usually be seen foraging in shallow water.

The Hamerkop has been associated with legends and folklores of Africa. For example it is believed that anyone who steals from the nest will be struck by lightening or get leprosy. Amazingly these legends have to some extent contributed to the survival of this waterbird.

In Uganda this bird can be seen in Lutembe Wetlands, Mabamba, Lake Kyoga and on the shores of Lake Victoria. Next time when you are near a wetland habitat in any East African country look out for the Hamerkop.