Australasian Shoveler
Where to spot
Found across Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania. They inhabit shallow freshwater wetlands, including swamps, marshes, and lakes, particularly those with abundant aquatic vegetation.
How to spot
The large spatulate bill is the key identifier for both sexes. Males in breeding plumage are distinctive with a dark green head, yellow eye, and white crescent on the face. In flight, look for the pale blue forewing patch, typical of shovelers.
When to spot
Observable year-round in most of its range. Breeding usually occurs during the local spring and summer months (September-February).
Where to spot
Found across Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania. They inhabit shallow freshwater wetlands, including swamps, marshes, and lakes, particularly those with abundant aquatic vegetation.
How to spot
The large spatulate bill is the key identifier for both sexes. Males in breeding plumage are distinctive with a dark green head, yellow eye, and white crescent on the face. In flight, look for the pale blue forewing patch, typical of shovelers.
When to spot
Observable year-round in most of its range. Breeding usually occurs during the local spring and summer months (September-February).
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Australasian Shovelers are highly specialized filter feeders, using their lamellae-lined bills to strain tiny crustaceans, insects, and seeds from the water.
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