Anas clypeata ORDER: ANSERIFORMES FAMILY: ANATIDAE
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern
© Joan Gellatly
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 gives a nasal bray in fall courtship. Female makes various quacks. Also makes a rattling noise, unique among dabbling ducks, upon taking flight.