GAMBIA BIRD SPECIES

African Pygmy Goose

Nettapus auritus

Overview

The African Pygmy Goose is one of Africa’s smallest and most beautiful wildfowl. A pair resting among water lilies adds jewel-like colour to a quiet Gambian wetland.

Identification

Males show a white face, black crown, green ear patch and richly chestnut breast; females are greyer with a dark eye-stripe. Both are tiny, compact ducks with short bills and quick flight.

Habitat and behaviour

They prefer calm freshwater pools, floodplains and slow channels with floating vegetation, especially water lilies. Birds feed on seeds and other plant material, swim among leaves and may perch in trees. Nesting takes place in cavities.

Birdwatching in The Gambia

Central River Gambia wetlands, including suitable floodplain and backwater habitats, offer possibilities, while seasonal pools elsewhere may also attract birds. Distribution changes as wetlands expand or dry.

Field note

Search floating vegetation carefully and check small ducks before assuming they are juveniles of a larger species. Lamin Jobaate can match the itinerary to current water levels and combine the search with finfoot, jacanas and kingfishers.

Plan your birdwatching tour: Ask Lamin Jobaate about a private itinerary for this species and The Gambia’s other outstanding birds.