Despite being referred to as a goose, it is much more duck-like in its behaviors and size. The common name “pygmy” refers to its diminutive stature, and “cotton” is a nod to its delicate, fluffy white feathers, particularly noticeable in the male’s back and wings.
Found in tropical Asia, from Pakistan and India to southeast Asia and Queensland in Australia, this species is known for its preference for small, still bodies of water rich in floating vegetation. Cotton pygmy geese are often seen in pairs or small groups, inhabiting ponds, swamps, and rice fields. Their habitat selection is crucial for their feeding habits, as they tend to forage on the water’s surface, picking off vegetation, seeds, and small aquatic organisms.
These geese are notable for their striking appearance. Males have a glossy green-black cap, a white head, neck, and underparts, and a prominent black collar around the neck during the breeding season. Females and non-breeding males are more subdued in color, with greyish-brown plumage and less contrasting features. Both sexes, however, display the characteristic bright white wing coverts that give them their name.
The cotton pygmy goose’s breeding season is synchronized with the monsoon rains, which expand their aquatic habitats and food supply. They are cavity nesters, often choosing to breed in tree hollows near water, which provides protection from predators. The increase in water level during the rainy season also facilitates more efficient foraging and chick rearing.
The social behavior of these birds is quite fascinating. They tend to roost in communal groups, and during the non-breeding season, they may congregate in large flocks, which can number in the thousands. Such gatherings are most likely for both safety and social interaction.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Australia
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Cambodia
China
Hong Kong
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Japan
Jordan
Laos
Malaysia
Maldives
Myanmar
Nepal
Oman
Pakistan
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Sri Lanka
Taiwan
Thailand
UAE
Vietnam
YemenAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Flock
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
