Blue-billed Teal vs Cape Shoveler
Spatula hottentota versus Spatula smithii
Play a quiz with Blue-billed Teal and Cape Shoveler
Blue-billed Teal
Cape Shoveler
In short
The most reliable field mark to distinguish the Blue-billed Teal from the Cape Shoveler is the bill shape and color. The Blue-billed Teal has a smaller, more delicate bill with a distinct blue color, while the Cape Shoveler features a larger, spatula-shaped bill that is grayish. Observing these features through binoculars can help in accurate identification.
Identification tips
- Bill Shape and Color: Look for the smaller, blue bill of the Blue-billed Teal compared to the larger, spatula-shaped grayish bill of the Cape Shoveler. 2. Size: Note that the Cape Shoveler is larger overall. These features are best observed with good lighting and a clear view.
Size
The Cape Shoveler is generally larger than the Blue-billed Teal.