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Nigel Key Red Shoveler
(Slimbridge May 2013)
The Red Shoveler, also known as the Red Shoveller, is a dabbling duck of the Anas genus found in South America.
The Shoveler’s bill has a comb like structure on its edges which acts like a sieve to filter out food from the water's surface.
The Red Shoveler is common and is not threatened, it is currently classed as Least Concern.
| Hear the Red Shoveler's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
450mm to 560mm (16" to 33")
Appearance - Male
The male has Cinnamon plumage with dark spots, the head and neck are Grey with Black spots on the crown, the eyes are a pale Bluish White and the large spatula shaped bill is Black. The wing has Blue coverts, a Green speculum and White underside. The lower back and rump are Black and the tail is Black with White outer feathers. The legs and feet are Yellow/Orange.
Appearance - Female
The female has Brown Grey dappled plumage, large spatula shaped bill and Brown eyes. The legs and feet are Grey.
Habitat
Wetlands, Marshes, Pools, Lakes, Lagoons and Estuaries.
Diet
Aquatic Plants, Insects, Seeds, Plankton, Invertebrates and Molluscs.
Breeding Time
September to October.
Nest
The nest is built on the ground from twigs, reeds and dry grass.
Eggs
Quantity: 5 to 8
Colour: Creamy White.
