Shoveller

The Northern Shoveler is easy to recognise by its large, spoon-shaped bill, which it uses to sweep through shallow water to catch small water creatures and seeds. Male birds in breeding season have a shiny green head, white chest, and reddish-brown sides, while females have brown speckled feathers. When flying, both males and females show pale blue patches on their wings. This duck is found across much of the Northern Hemisphere. In Britain, it breeds in small numbers, mostly in eastern England and Scotland. During winter, many come from continental Europe to stay in wetlands, marshes, and flooded grasslands. The Northern Shoveler prefers shallow, fresh water that is rich in nutrients, with muddy edges where it can feed best. It is often seen swimming in tight circles to create water currents that help it catch food.