Featured Image - Winter 2003

Northern Shoveler

Wintertime in Oklahoma means waterfowl arrive in good numbers. They prefer large watersheds but will occasionally frequent small ponds.  Northern Shovelers particularly like small ponds where they can feed in groups. They swim in circles, scooping up small fish and algae with their spoon like bills. While feeding, they will now and then allow close approach. I kept my profile low for two reasons: I did not want to frighten the birds off, and the low angle makes for a better image. This image was made at Will Rogers Park in Oklahoma City, within 100 yards of noisy, heavily traveled Interstate 240.

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