Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Blog Post Species #84/100
Few things on earth fill us with as much delight as birds, and knowing them by name only adds to our pleasure. In California’s Central Valley, with only a little bit of effort, anyone can learn 100 local bird species. Especially since on a daily basis Valley Residents come in contact with at least a dozen species that most recognize, but may not know the name of. The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about and be able to identify 100 common valley birds.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
WHAT’S IN A NAME
Northern Shoveler – Anas clypeata
Name Roots: (L. anas, “a duck” – clypeata, “furnished with a shield”)
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Medium-sized duck; smaller than a Mallard. Huge, spoon-shaped bill visible at a distance and in flight. Breeding males have dark green head, white breast, and chestnut sides and belly. Females buffy-brown with large, distinctive bill. Chalky-blue upperwing.
DISTRIBUTION STATUS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY
The Northern Shoveler is a Common Winter Visitor and Rare Summer Visitor in California’s Central Valley and can be found in Freshwater Wetlands and Open Water.
eBird Bar Charts & Map Grid
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Reflections of the Natural World 