Cape Shoveler

The Cape shoveler, known scientifically as Spatula smithii, is a distinctive species of dabbling duck belonging to the genus Spatula. This bird is characterized by its sizeable spatulate bill, which is a defining feature of the species.

Identification Tips

Adult Cape shovelers exhibit speckled grey-brown plumage and possess rather dull orange legs. The male can be distinguished by his paler head, pale blue forewing edged with a white border that separates it from the green speculum, and striking yellow eyes. The female, on the other hand, has a grey forewing and is generally less vividly colored.

Habitat

These birds are commonly found in open wetlands, including wet grasslands and marshes that have some emergent vegetation, providing them with ample feeding and nesting opportunities.

Distribution

The Cape shoveler is a resident bird primarily found in South Africa, with its presence extending uncommonly further north to countries such as Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, southern Angola, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Zambia.

Behaviour

The Cape shoveler is non-migratory by nature but does engage in local seasonal movements. It is known for its gregarious behavior outside of the breeding season, often forming large flocks.

Song & Calls

This species is relatively quiet. The male emits a 'rarr' and 'cawick' sound, while the female is known for her 'quack'.

Breeding

Breeding Cape shovelers construct their nests as shallow depressions on the ground, which are lined with plant material and down. These nests are typically situated close to water sources.

Similar Species

The Cape shoveler could potentially be confused with a vagrant female northern shoveler. However, it is markedly darker and more robust than its northern counterpart.

Diet and Feeding

Cape shovelers engage in dabbling for plant food and are often seen swinging their bills from side to side to strain food from the water. During the nesting season, their diet expands to include molluscs and insects.

Conservation status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Cape shoveler as a species of Least Concern, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its survival.