The Northern Shoveler, is unmistakable due to its spoon-like bill, much larger than that of its fellow dabblers!
This duck got its name for good reason. It swims with its large bill partially submerged, filtering crustaceans and other invertebrates from the soupy mud. Flocks of Northern Shovelers can be seen swimming along, swinging their bills from side to side under the surface in a seemingly choreographed water ballet.
The male Northern Shoveler is identifyable by its iridescent green head with wide black beak, a white chest, and rusty sides. Don't mistake it for the Mallard though, which has a yellow beak and a white ring at the base of the neck.
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