Australasian Shoveler

Spatula rhynchotis is a native filtering duck known in Māori as kuruwhengu. It differs from other New Zealand ducks through its long, broad, spoon-shaped bill. Males have a blue-grey head, white face crescent and rich chestnut flanks. Females are mottled brown but retain the diagnostic oversized bill.

It is widespread on suitable wetlands across the main islands and visits offshore groups. Shallow productive lakes, marshes and lagoons are favoured. The bill strains tiny crustaceans, insects and seeds from the water. Birds often swim in circles to stir food toward the surface.

The New Zealand classification is Not Threatened. Lake Ellesmere Te Waihora and Wairarapa Moana regularly support sizeable flocks.