Elf Owl
NameElf Owl
Common NameElf Owl
Scientific NameMicrathene whitneyi
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)27
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is generally gray-brown, finely streaked and barred with buff and white, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It has prominent white 'eyebrows' above its large, bright yellow eyes, and a short tail.
Vocalization / CallIts most common call is a rapid, high-pitched, whistled 'chup-chup-chup' or 'whita-whita-whita' series, often accelerating towards the end.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, riparian areas, woodlands, canyons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, western Texas) and much of Mexico. Northern populations migrate south to central and southern Mexico for the winter.
Identifying Featuressmallest owl in North America, large yellow eyes, white 'eyebrows', gray-brown streaked plumage, short tail
Description
The Elf Owl is the smallest owl in North America, known for its tiny size and large yellow eyes. It is a nocturnal bird, primarily active at dusk and dawn, hunting insects and other small invertebrates.
