Do rainy days impact the feeding activity of Shovelers?

Shoveler Feeding Behavior on Rainy Days

Shovelers, as dabbling ducks, primarily forage for invertebrates and small invertebrates in shallow water. On rainy days, they adjust their feeding strategies to cope with the changed environment.

Rainy Day Habitat Selection

Rainy days often result in reduced water levels, exposing more aquatic invertebrates on the water’s surface or in shallow areas. Shovelers are more likely to forage in areas with reduced water flow, such as backwaters or flooded fields. They may also exploit areas with accumulated leaf litter or decaying vegetation, where invertebrates tend to congregate.

Feeding Techniques on Rainy Days

To effectively feed on rainy days, shovelers use their unique bill shape to excavate invertebrates from the substrate. They often tip their heads and open their bills, allowing water to flow out while trapping invertebrates inside. Shovelers also employ a “dabbling” technique, where they quickly dip their heads and bills into the water, then withdraw to filter out water and retain invertebrates.