Spatula smithii
The Cape Shoveler (Spatula smithii) is a medium-sized dabbling duck endemic to Southern Africa, immediately recognizable by its disproportionately large, spatulate bill, a specialized adaptation for filter-feeding. Adults typically measure 51-58 cm (20-23 in) in length with a wingspan of 75-80 cm (30-31 in), and weigh between 450-800 grams. Males are distinct with a dark grey head and neck, bright yellow eyes, a prominent white crescent between the bill and eye, and a largely grey body with a...
Primarily inhabits shallow, freshwater wetlands, vleis, and dams, often tolerating slightly saline or alkaline waters across its Southern African range.
Feeds primarily on zooplankton (e.g., crustaceans, insect larvae), small invertebrates, seeds, and aquatic vegetation, acquired through its specialized filter-feeding bill.
Cape Shovelers are largely diurnal, spending their days foraging in shallow waters and often roosting in larger flocks on open water or secluded shores. Their foraging strategy is highly specialized, involving filtering food particles from the water surface or just below, often with their heads s...
The Cape Shoveler is endemic to Southern Africa, with its primary distribution concentrated in South Africa, extending into Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and Eswatini. In South Africa, it is widespread across the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, and KwaZulu-Natal, favoring...
Least Concern
- The Cape Shoveler's distinctive spatulate bill contains fine lamellae (comb-like structures) along its edges, acting as a sieve to filter out small food items from the water. - Unlike many ducks, they frequently feed with their heads submerged, swimming in tight circles or with other shovelers ...