Message-ID: <alpine.NEB.2.00.1302172251460.15831@panix3.panix.com>
From: Alan Sondheim <sondheim@panix.com>
To: Cyb <cybermind@listserv.wvu.edu>, Wryting-L <WRYTING-L@listserv.wvu.edu>
Subject: Northern Shoveler feeding behavior
Date: Sun, 17 Feb 2013 22:52:39 -0500 (EST)
Northern Shoveler feeding behavior http://www.alansondheim.org/winter.mp4 These are Northern Shoveler ducks, filter feeders fairly uncommon in most parts of the US. Here, they feed linearly for short periods, then gather in rotating 'rafts'; with their heads down, they stir the bottom with their feet. The day was cold, 14 degree F wind chill, and there were Canada Geese, mallards, black ducks, ruddy ducks, swans, white ducks, ring-nosed gulls, pigeons, and others in the mix - so many birds, that the shovelers had difficulty remaining in formation. This will give you an idea of the rafts and linear drives; you'll have to wait for warmer weather, hope the birds are still there along with us, and we might have larger rafts. By the way when we left we saw a solitary immature gyrfalcon (not in the video). Enjoy!