Northern Shoveler - Blue-winged Teal Hybrid

March 30 Email:

I believe the upper bird is a Blue-winged Teal x Northern Shoveler hybrid. I saw it at the Wastewater on Saturday afternoon along the north shore of the west lagoon.

- Mike Boston

Thanks, Mike!  Isn't that an interesting animal.  I just found a European birding site that says this hybrid " ... occurs fairly often in North America where ... both species are common".  I've never seen one, but considering the number of shovelers that visit the Wastewater, I'm wondering if anyone else around here has?   - Ric