Northern Shovelers

or

North American Shoveler, Common Shoveler

Anas clypeata

Photo copyright Romain Kang

This is the only Shoveler that inhabits the Northern Hemisphere. It is found across North America, Europe, and Asia, with wintering populations also in Africa.

These ducks prefer quiet shallow fresh waters. They feed mainly by dabbling. They have two feeding styles. In one the bird swims along with it's bill open at the water's surface, filtering tiny plants and animals with the comblike "teeth" lining its bill. If there is no floating food available, a small group of Shovelers will swim in a tight circle and create a small whirlpool which brings food to the surface.

Good fliers and bouyant swimmers, they are awkward on land.

In captivity, you must be prepared to supply a great deal of animal food in their diet. The 8-14 pale greenish-buff eggs hatch in 23-25 days.