Red Shoveler

Spatula platalea

The Red Shoveler (Spatula platalea) is a species of dabbling duck found in southern South America. It is named for its distinctive red plumage and unique shovel-shaped bill. These ducks are often found in freshwater marshes, shallow lakes, and lagoons. They are known for their feeding behavior, in which they use their specialized bill to filter small invertebrates and plant matter from the water. The Red Shoveler is a medium-sized duck, with males and females displaying sexual dimorphism. Males have vibrant red plumage, while females have more subdued brown and gray coloring. The conservation status of the Red Shoveler is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat: Freshwater marshes, shallow lakes, lagoons