








About the African Pygmy Goose
The African pygmy goose is a perching duck from sub-Saharan Africa. It is the smallest of Africa's waterfowl, and one of the smallest in the world.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The African pygmy goose is one of the smallest of the perching ducks, and it has the average weight of about 285 grams (10.1 oz) for males and 260 grams (9.2 oz) for females. Length of individual wings is between 142 millimetres (5.6 in) and 165 millimetres (6.5 in) (not to be confused with wingspan). They have a short bill which extends up the forehead so they superficially resemble geese. The males have a white face with black eye patches. The iridescent black crown extends down the back of the neck. This structure fringes powder green ear patches.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the African Pygmy Goose lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in São Tomé & Príncipe, Belgium, Central African Republic, Somalia.
When to see the African Pygmy Goose
Peak activity in November · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Green Pygmy GooseNettapus pulchellusRanging from 30 to 36 cm (12 to 14 in) in length, the green pygmy goose is one of the smallest species of duck.
Cotton Pygmy GooseNettapus coromandelianusSmall individuals of this species are the smallest waterfowl on earth, at as little as 160 g (5.6 oz) and 26 cm (10 in).
Learn the African Pygmy Goose in BeakBrain
Photo and call practice, free in any browser.
Play BeakBrainEvery photo and recording on this page is credited to its author under the licence shown. Spotted a problem with this page, or have a better photo? Contribute.