Length: 17 - 20"
Habitat: Shallow edges of lakes and ponds, shallow marshes, sloughs.
Prefers habitat near dry grassy areas for nesting.
In winter, also coastal bays, tidal estuaries,
brackish lagoons.
Diet: Aquatic vegetation such as pondweeds, sedges, grasses, and water lilies. Tiny crustaceans, mollusks, algae, insects.
Female Northern Shoveler
By D. Daniels [CC BY-SA 3.0], via WC
Breeding Bird Survey Map,
2011-2015
(Image credit: USGS)
Range in New England
In New England, the Northern Shoveler is a very rare and local breeder. It is mainly seen during migration.
Christmas Bird Count Map
Historical CBC Map from USGS