(Northern Shovelers - photo by Neil Barker - May 12, 2024)
Our journeys continue both North and South, through the four seasons.
A deep feeling moves us to seek a new start and direction.
But where does this deep feeling come from: within us or without?
I took these photos on May 12, 2024. I was 20 minutes into my hike at Britannia Conservation Area here in Ottawa when I saw this pair of Northern Shovelers. I had never seen a Northern Shoveler before.
At first, I thought they were Mallards. The feathers and colours of the female are quite similar to a Mallard Duck. Both were swimming with their bills skimming under the water and I could not see that distinct ‘shovel’ shaped bill.
Both were quite shy and wary were likely stopping over at Mud Lake as a rest stop on their way North. I wished them a safe journey North you two and I hope to see them again with a family in tow during the Autumn migration.
Great post, Neil. The Shovelers also made me do a double take this year as there were a lot of them in my area. They are a perfect blend of form and function with those incredible shoveler bills. I hope you’ll continue to see them in Canada. Lovely poem.
Great shots, Neil. 2024 was a good year for shovelers for me as well. Id never seen one either—or at least didn’t know if I had. A spectacular duck. I have taken them for mallards before as well.