Indian Pygmy Goose

Nettapus coromandelianus

Status: Least Concern

Size:  Up to 10” in length

Status: Least Concern

Size:  Up to 10” in length

Habitat:  Inland wetlands

At the El Paso Zoo: Asia Forest Aviary

Also called the Cotton Pygmy Goose or Cotton Teal this species of Asian waterfowl is one of the smallest in the world.  Ranging from India, Sri Lanka, Southern China and Southeast Asia they inhabit freshwater lakes, lagoons, swamps, and dams. 

Males are more colorful to attract females. Most of the wild population is non-migratory allowing them to keep their territories year-round.  The spoon-like shape of the bill helps filter food from sand, water, and mud.

In the wild Indian Pygmy geese are omnivores and eat a variety of aquatic vegetation, seeds, crustaceans, and insects.  At the zoo our geese receive a variety of greens, seeds, mealworms, and crickets.

Photos
Top – Sabrina Setaro, Wikimedia Creative Commons
Bottom – Kevin, Wikimedia Creative Commons