Adventures Outdoors'
In Wisconsin
SHOVELER
(Anas clypeata)
ABOUT THEM
The Shoveler is seen throughout Wisconsin mostly in the west and south and is usually a early migrater not waiting much longer than the first frost to migrate. They fly with a fast wing beat and make quick turns similar to Teal. This Puddlers diet of mostly animal matter makes him less desirable for the table. They breed in the prairies of Canada, and north central USA. They nest on the ground in grassy areas laying an average of 9 eggs. they fly from the prairie pothole region through the Pacific or Central flyway to their wintering grounds of California, coastal Louisiana, Texas, and Mexico. They also visit Central America. Their population has fluctuated but shows a consistent increase since the 1950,s. The 2001 breeding population was 3.3 million well above the NAWMP goal of 2 million.
DESCRIPTION
The Drake has a large spoon-shaped, dark bill, green head, white breast and tail, russet-colored sides and belly, blue wing speculum, yellow eyes, and orange feet.
The Hen has large yellow or greenish spoon-shaped bill, mottled brown body, blue wing speculum, brown eyes, and orange feet.
SIZE
Average Length = 19.5"
Average Weight = 1.5lbs