Specie's Page                                               Water Fowl - Northern Shoveler Duck

Northern Shoveller Duck:

UK Status: Resident, and native.

Habitat: Shoveler's are named as such because their beaks are similar in shape to a shovel. This bird is becoming endangered, and breeding programs are underway to increase it's numbers. These ducks inhabit open places like wetland, marshes and river estuaries.

Breeding: Shoveler's nest alone, or in small loose groups. Nests are made in a depression on the ground in grassy areas, and the depression is lined with duck down from their breast. Nine to twelve pale olive eggs are usually laid in each clutch, there is one, or two clutches per season.

Comment: Not as common any more, these ducks are found mainly in the south and east of England, Around river estuaries such as the Humber, the Wash, the Ouse and the marshes in North Kent. It's not common in Scotland, but is found there in small numbers.

BE AWARE PLEASE:  Ground nesting birds are very vulnerable to having their eggs and chicks smashed or crushed. This can happen when people are unaware of their presence, or when dogs are allowed to run loose during the breeding season. Nests are very well hidden, and are not usually spotted until it's to late. Dogs often have no concern for ground nesting birds, please keep them on their leads from April through to the end of September.

Fun Fact:   A group of ducks is known as a Twack, A Twak of Ducks.