African Pygmy Goose

Nettapus auritus

The African Pygmy Goose (Nettapus auritus) is a small, colorful waterfowl found in sub-Saharan Africa. These ducks are known for their striking plumage, with the males displaying vibrant iridescent green and white markings, while the females have more subdued brown and white coloring. They are often found in wetland habitats such as marshes, swamps, and shallow lakes, where they feed on aquatic plants and invertebrates. Despite their small size, African Pygmy Geese are strong fliers and are capable of covering long distances during their migrations. Their conservation status is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, due to their widespread distribution and stable population.

Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, shallow lakes

African Pygmy Goose
© Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0