Northern Shoveller

A winter migrant to India, the Northern Shoveller (Anas Clypeata) is a common bird spotted across open wetlands and other fresh water bodies in most parts of the country. It is widespread across Europe and Asia, and is also resident in North America. These birds are easily identified by their large spatulate bills. The males have an iridescent dark green head with a white and chestnut body during breeding season. At other times, the eclipse male (non-breeding) is similar to the mottled-brown colored female.

Northern Shoveller, male, at Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana, India

Northern Shovellers feed by dabbling in shallow waters. Their specialized bills allow them to strain water for aquatic invertebrates. Comb-like structures on the edge of the bills act as sieves, and get them a rich carnivorous diet.

Eclipse male, at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary in Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Drakes and a female Shoveller swim at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary

These birds nest away from water, on the ground, laying a clutch of about nine eggs. The males defend the nest and female from predators. They are very territorial and fights away other competing males during the breeding season. The males also perform elaborate courtship to attract their mates. However, in non-breeding season, the Northern Shovellers form small flocks and are gregarious in nature.

Northern Shovellers flying over Okhla Bird Sanctuary, near Delhi

A male Northern Shoveller flies alongside a Eurasian Wigeon at Bharatpur

With over 4 million birds globally, the Northern Shoveller is placed in the “Least Concern” category of IUCN. Fortunately, their numbers are growing unlike many other species, and they will continue being our winter guests for a long time. 

A flock of Northern Shovellers in flight over Dhanauri wetlands, Uttar Pradesh