Shoveler - Male

The shoveler is a dabbling duck. It uses its huge bill to sift the surface of the water for food. They are scarce breeding birds, but in winter the UK population is boosted by birds from continental Europe. The picture was taken at rspb Leighton Moss. 

As is almost always the case at Leighton Moss, we were able to watch marsh harriers hunting over the reed beds. Unfortunately, they were too far away for a decent photograph. 

Whilst walking back from the hide, I was really happy to hear a booming male bittern. I've seen bitterns a number of times, but I've never heard one boom. I hope the lady bitterns were impressed - I certainly was.