Northern shoveler (Anas clypeata) male landing on a frozen pond in the winter, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico, United States of America, North America

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) hen in flight, Antelope Island State Park, Utah, United States of America, North America

Northern shoveler (Anas clypeata) in flight, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico, United States of America, North America

The Kern Valley Wildlife Refuge in California's Central Valley was created as important resting and feeding grounds for wildfowl migrating along the pacific flyway. After four years of unprecedented drought, the water shortages in California are critical. The reserve has received only 40% of its usual warer, with the result that most of the lake beds are dried up and dessicated, leaving the birds few places to go. This is the only area of lake with any water left.

Northern Shoveller (Anas clypeata)

Male Shoveler taking off from the water in winter, GB

Northern shoveler (Spatula clypeata), Italy, May 2018

Red Shoveler on water, Torres del Paine Chile

Male Shoveler in flight in winter, GB