Watercolor portrait of Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata)

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata
Breeds across northern North America, Eu… Shallow, nutrient-rich wetlands includin… Common Male courtship wheezy whistle

Learn to identify the Northern Shoveler by ear. Master the "took-took-took" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“took-took-took”

What the Northern Shoveler sounds like

The Northern Shoveler is a medium-sized dabbling duck instantly recognizable by its outsized, spoon-shaped bill. Males in breeding plumage sport bold patterns of green, white, chestnut, and black, while females are mottled brown with an orange-tipped bill. They skim the water’s surface in tight groups, filtering plankton, seeds, and invertebrates with the comb-like lamellae along the edges of their bills.

“took-took-took”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:During courtship the drake gives a repeated, nasal wheezy whistle while swimming in circles around the hen. Often written as “took-took-took”.
Don't confuse with:The Blue-winged Teal — much smaller bill lacking spatulate tip

Where you'll hear it

Shallow, nutrient-rich wetlands including marshes, prairie potholes, flooded fields, sewage ponds, and saline lagoons; favors areas with extensive emergent vegetation adjacent to open water.

Migratory: arrives on breeding grounds March–May and departs August–October. Forms large wintering flocks November–February.

Similar species

Blue-winged Teal

Much smaller bill lacking spatulate tip

Mallard

Heftier body and more proportionate yellow bill

Northern Pintail

Long neck and pointed tail, slender gray bill

Northern Shoveler song FAQ

What does a Northern Shoveler sound like?
During courtship the drake gives a repeated, nasal wheezy whistle while swimming in circles around the hen. Listen for the "took-took-took" phrase.
How do I tell a Northern Shoveler from a Blue-winged Teal by sound?
Blue-winged Teal: Much smaller bill lacking spatulate tip; Male has white facial crescent; no chestnut sides; Feeding style more dabbling than skimming.
When is the best time to hear a Northern Shoveler?
Migratory: arrives on breeding grounds March–May and departs August–October. Forms large wintering flocks November–February.