Elf Owl
Image: Guillermo Morales G. (cc-by-nc)
NameElf Owl
Common NameElf Owl
Scientific NameMicrathene whitneyi
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)28.5
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)42
Plumage DetailsMottled grayish-brown plumage with fine white spotting and streaking, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It has prominent white 'eyebrows' above its bright yellow eyes and a pale facial disc.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a high-pitched, rapid, whistled 'chatter' or 'whinny' call, often described as a series of 'chuck-chuck-chuck' notes followed by a whistled 'whistle-whistle'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, riparian woodland, thorn forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and throughout much of Mexico, extending south to central Mexico. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest owl species, Bright yellow eyes, Prominent white 'eyebrows', Mottled grayish-brown plumage, Nests in tree cavities, often saguaro cacti
Description
The Elf Owl is the world's smallest owl, known for its tiny size and large, bright yellow eyes. It is a nocturnal bird that primarily hunts insects and other invertebrates, often nesting in abandoned woodpecker holes in saguaro cacti or trees.
