Cotton Pygmy Goose

The cotton pygmy goose is among the world's smallest waterfowl, measuring about 26–35 cm and weighing roughly 160–260 g. The breeding male is largely white with a glossy dark-green back, black neck band and pale bill; females are greyer, with a dark eye-stripe, while eclipse males resemble females. Short bills, rounded heads and quick direct flight help distinguish these tiny perching ducks (Wikipedia, general species account).

It uses freshwater lakes, ponds and marshes rich in water lilies and other floating plants from South and Southeast Asia to New Guinea and northern Australia. Pairs or small groups feed on aquatic seeds and shoots with insects and crustaceans, and disperse widely as seasonal water changes. Breeding usually follows rain. Birds nest in natural tree hollows near water, where the female lays six to twelve eggs and incubates them for about 21–23 days (Wikipedia, general species account).