Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

no photo — written note
photo: Wikimedia Commons
Birds

A spoon-billed duck that strains plankton from the surface, often swimming in circles.

Field facts
HabitatShallow marsh, sewage lagoons, reservoirs
RangeStatewide on migration
When to lookMarch to May; September to November
StatusLeast Concern (Indiana DNR / IUCN Red List)
Look-alikesMallard — smaller bill

Field note: Groups spin together to stir food up from the bottom.

Lesson
Watching responsibly

Wastewater treatment wetlands are birding gold — respect access rules.

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