Which waterfowl species is known for having a spatulate bill?

The northern shoveler is recognized for its distinctive spatulate bill, which is wider and flatter at the end compared to other duck species. This unique bill shape is specially adapted for a filtering feeding technique, allowing the northern shoveler to efficiently forage for small aquatic organisms, seeds, and plant material in shallow waters. The wide bill helps scoop up water along with food items, which are then strained out using the shoveler's lamellae—fine, comb-like structures lining the bill.

In contrast, the northern pintail, American black duck, and wood duck have more traditional duck-shaped bills that taper to a point, which are better suited for different feeding strategies. These other species do not possess the same spatulate bill characteristic, making the northern shoveler distinct in both appearance and feeding behavior.