Northern Shoveler Ducks

Description:

Perhaps the most outwardly distinctive of the dabbling ducks, the Northern Shoveler inhabits wetlands across much of North America. Its elongated, spoon-shaped bill has comblike projections along its edges, which filter out food from the water. Male: Breeding Plumage: Head dark glossy green. Bill black. Back black. Chest white. Flanks and belly chestnut-brown. Eyes yellow. Eclipse Plumage: Duller. Head and breast brownish black speckled with whitish or tan. Back black with tan feather edges. Flanks light brown. May show indistinct white crescent on face behind bill. Eyes yellow. Female: Grayish-brown overall; some feathers have light edging with darker centers. Bill olive-green with yellowish base and edges. Eyes brown.

Habitat:

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge: The primary purpose of the refuge is to protect and manage 11,320 acres of habitat for refuge and breeding ground purposes for migratory birds and other wildlife. The Refuge includes about 6,500 acres of uplands, 4,000 acres of open water, 500 acres of wetlands, and 400 acres of croplands.