Shovelers

Shovelers are a group of large dabbling ducks belonging to the genus Spatula. The most common and widely recognized species is the Northern Shoveler, Spatula clypeata, found across North America, Europe, and Asia. Other shovelers include the Blue-winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, and Garganey, though these are sometimes placed in different genera depending on taxonomic classification.

The defining characteristic of shovelers is their large, spatulate bill, which is broader at the tip than at the base. This unique bill is equipped with lamellae, comb-like structures along the edges, used for filtering food from the water. They feed by swimming with their heads submerged and bills near the surface, sifting out aquatic invertebrates, seeds, and plant matter.

Shovelers typically inhabit wetlands, marshes, ponds, and shallow lakes, preferring areas with dense vegetation for cover and nesting. They are migratory birds, with many populations traveling long distances between their breeding grounds and wintering areas. Their plumage varies between sexes, with males often displaying more vibrant and colorful patterns, especially during the breeding season, while females are typically camouflaged in mottled brown to blend in with their surroundings. Shoveler nests are usually built on the ground, concealed in vegetation near water.