Cape Shoveler

Spatula smithii

The Cape Shoveler (Spatula smithii) is a species of dabbling duck found in southern Africa. It is easily recognized by its distinctive spatula-shaped bill, which it uses to filter small invertebrates and seeds from the water. This medium-sized duck has a mottled brown plumage with a striking green speculum on its wings. The Cape Shoveler is commonly found in shallow freshwater wetlands, including marshes, ponds, and lakes. It is often seen foraging in the water, using its specialized bill to sift through mud and vegetation. While the population size of the Cape Shoveler is not well-documented, it is generally considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN due to its widespread distribution and stable population.

Habitat: Freshwater wetlands