Common name: Northern Shoveler
Scientific name: Spatula clypeata
Family: Anatidae

Size:
Body length: 44–52 cm
Wingspan: 70–84 cm
Weight: 400–800 g

Identification:
A medium-sized dabbling duck best recognized by its large, spatula-shaped bill. The male in breeding plumage is striking with a dark green head, white chest, and rich chestnut flanks. The female is mottled brown, similar to other female ducks, but the oversized bill is distinctive in both sexes. In flight, both show a blue patch on the wing with green speculum.

Habitat:
Shallow wetlands, marshes, lagoons, ponds, and slow-moving waters, often with rich aquatic vegetation.

Status in the UAE:
Common winter visitor. Widely recorded in wetlands across the country.

Diet:
Omnivorous — feeds mainly by filtering small aquatic organisms, seeds, and plant matter from the water.

Behavior:
Often feeds by sweeping its bill side-to-side in the water to filter food. Frequently seen in groups, sometimes forming small feeding circles. Calm and social, especially during wintering periods.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)