Green Pygmy Goose

The green pygmy goose, Nettapus pulchellus, is a diminutive and charming waterfowl, one of the smallest ducks with a length spanning 30 to 36 cm and a wingspan of 48 to 60 cm. It possesses a small bill and a compact body, making it quite distinctive.

Identification Tips

During the breeding season, the male green pygmy goose sports a dark green back and neck, complemented by a dark gray crown. Its cheeks are a striking white, while the underparts are a soft pale grey with white scalloping. The tail and primary flight feathers are black, with secondary flight feathers of white and secondary coverts of a dark iridescent green. Outside of breeding, the plumage dulls, losing its iridescence. Females and non-breeding males are similar, with females having a barred neck. Juveniles are less vivid, with mottled dark brown heads.

Distribution

This species is native to southern New Guinea and northern Australia, extending from Western Australia through the Northern Territory to Queensland. It has also been spotted in Timor-Leste, where it may breed.

Habitat

The green pygmy goose favors well-vegetated lowland lagoons and other permanent freshwater bodies, providing ample vegetation for cover and foraging.

Behaviour

These birds are largely sedentary, though they may disperse during the wet season. They are known to perch and nest in tree hollows.

Song & Calls

The male emits a high-pitched whistle, while the female's call is a lower-pitched sound, facilitating communication across the waterways they inhabit.

Breeding

Breeding involves nesting in tree hollows, where the female lays a clutch of eight to twelve eggs. The incubation period lasts approximately 26 days.

Conservation status

The green pygmy goose is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.