Elf Owl
NameElf Owl
Common NameElf Owl
Scientific NameMicrathene whitneyi
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)27
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsMottled grayish-brown plumage with white spotting on the back and wings, and a streaked breast. It has prominent white 'eyebrows' above its large, bright yellow eyes, and a short tail.
Vocalization / CallA series of high-pitched, rapid, whistled 'chup-chup-chup' notes, often accelerating into a trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, arid scrubland, riparian areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico, migrating south for winter.
Identifying Featuressmallest owl in the world, large yellow eyes, white 'eyebrows', mottled grayish-brown plumage, no ear tufts
Description
The Elf Owl is the smallest owl in the world, characterized by its compact body and large yellow eyes. It is a nocturnal predator, primarily active at night, hunting insects in arid environments.
