Cape Shoveler
NameCape Shoveler
Common NameCape Shoveler
Scientific NameSpatula smithii
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsThe bird in the image appears to be a female or eclipse male, displaying mottled brown body plumage with a paler, buffy-brown head and neck. It has a bright yellow eye, a large dark grey to black spatulate bill, and bright orange legs. The upperwing shows a prominent pale blue-grey forewing patch and a green speculum, bordered by white.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a deep, guttural 'chook-chook' call and a whistling sound during display. Females have a softer, typical duck quack.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, primarily found in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
Identifying FeaturesLarge spatulate bill, Blue-grey forewing patch, Green speculum, Mottled brown plumage (female/eclipse male), Bright orange legs
Description
The Cape Shoveler is a medium-sized dabbling duck characterized by its distinctive large, spatulate bill. It is an endemic species of southern Africa, primarily found in freshwater wetlands where it filter-feeds on small aquatic organisms.
