The hammerhead shark is part of the shark group family, Sphyrnidae. This family known as the Sphyrnidae is known for the unusual shape their heads are formed. The hammerhead shark got its name from the hammer like shape that this particular shark was born with. These shark’s heads are shaped like this for a reason however. This strange shape is used to its advantage when it comes to moving through the water, manipulating its prey, and even used as sensory receptors.

Hammerhead sharks mostly gather with each other during the day in schools, or groups, of up to 100 hammerhead sharks. During the night is when they space out and start hunting for their prey. They are found in warmer waters such as the waters around the Malpelo Islands in Columbia, Cocos Island near Costa Rica, and near Molokai in Hawaii. The warm waters from all over the world, they can even be found along the coastlines and continental shelves. These creatures can reach up to around 20 feet long and weigh as much as 1300 pounds. The tops of these sharks are camouflaged with a gray, greenish tint with a white belly.

Because these sharks have a smaller mouth than what their body should allow, they are normally seen hunting from the bottom. Although they swim in a pack, they often hunt when they are by themselves. The hammerhead shark has been around for over 20 million years and will always mystify and amaze those who have an interest in the animals. Not only is the hammerhead shark unique, it is also part of the endangered species list. What better way to dedicate your love and admiration for this ancient creature than get a tattoo of it? Down below are examples of hammerhead shark tattoos that others have gotten, different designs, placements, and symbolism.

Hammerhead Symbolism

The image of a shark can be perceived as many different things throughout the world. Not only does this ferocious water beast look threatening and terrifying, it has much more meaning behind it than what the horror movies like to portray. The Celtics saw the shark for what it was, an extremely well hunter that was both smart and strong. Because of this, the Celts used the dorsal fin of a shark to represent a successful hunt, harvest of crops, and ability to survive. The shark is after all, the top of the food chain and ruler of the waters. There are over 400 different species of sharks, the hammerhead shark however is different than all of them and carries its own special symbolism about it.