Rare Northern Shovelers, mandarin ducks wintering in Hlawga National Park

Birds from the northern part of the world, including rare Northern Shovelers, were observed wintering in Hlawga National Park, located in Mingaladon Township, Yangon.
According to park officials, wintering birds from the northern hemisphere have arrived at Hlawga Park, a popular destination for enthusiastic birdwatchers during winter hibernation. This year, a rare bird species known as the Northern Shoveler was observed hibernating in the park.
The report indicates that on 23 December, personnel from Hlawga Park observed and recorded a rare Northern Shoveler wintering near the Camping Ground Lake within the park, alongside other species such as mandarin ducks and spot-billed ducks.
The Northern Shoveler is a freshwater duck characterized by a very long, broad, and flattened bill. It is noted for its huge and spatula-shaped bill, distinguishing it from other duck species.
Additionally, the report mentions that the mandarin duck, a waterfowl species with colourful sail fins on its back and a migratory bird rarely seen in Myanmar, was observed returning to the park on 17 December. Consequently, the park initiated a bird observation programme for enthusiasts starting on 25 November. — ASH/ TMT