The Shoveler (Anas clypeata) is a distinctive duck species native to the UK, known for its unique shovel-shaped bill and striking plumage. It is a migratory bird, spending the winter in the UK and breeding in northern Europe and Asia during the summer months.

Shovelers primarily feed on aquatic invertebrates, seeds, and plant matter, which they filter from the water using their specialised bill. They are often found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, lakes, ponds, and estuaries, where they can find suitable feeding grounds and nesting sites.

Their habitat in the UK includes various environments, from coastal marshes to inland lakes and rivers, where they can find suitable nesting sites and ample food sources.

Shovelers are highly social birds, often seen in small flocks or mixed-species groups during the winter months. They are known for their distinctive feeding behaviour, in which they swim in shallow water with their bill lowered, using it to filter food from the water.

The average lifespan of a Shoveler is around 5 to 10 years, although some individuals may live longer in favourable conditions.

In cultural references, Shovelers may not be as prominent as some other bird species, but they are valued by birdwatchers and enthusiasts for their beauty and behaviour. They may also appear in local folklore and stories as symbols of wetland habitats and the natural world.

An interesting fact about Shovelers is their highly specialised bill, which is adapted for filter-feeding. The bill contains comb-like structures called lamellae, which allow them to strain tiny organisms and plant matter from the water while swimming. This unique adaptation enables Shovelers to exploit a wide range of aquatic habitats and food sources.