Elf Owl
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/9765210@N03">Dominic Sherony</a> (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameElf Owl
Common NameElf Owl
Scientific NameMicrathene whitneyi
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)27
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsPlumage is mottled grayish-brown on the back and crown, with white streaking on the underparts. It features prominent bright yellow eyes, a white 'eyebrow' stripe above each eye, and a rufous-brown facial disc.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive high-pitched, rapid, and somewhat whinnying or chattering call, often described as a series of short, sharp whistles or 'chup-chup-chup-chup-chup'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert scrub, riparian woodlands, saguaro deserts, canyons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (primarily Arizona, parts of California, New Mexico, and Texas) and throughout much of Mexico.
Identifying Featuressmallest owl in North America, bright yellow eyes, white 'eyebrows', no ear tufts, mottled grayish-brown and white plumage, robin-sized
Description
The Elf Owl is the smallest owl in North America, characterized by its tiny size and nocturnal behavior. It typically nests in abandoned woodpecker cavities in saguaro cacti or trees, emerging at night to hunt insects.
