Micrathene whitneyi
The Elf Owl, Micrathene whitneyi, holds the distinguished title of the world's smallest owl, a diminutive marvel of the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts. Measuring a mere 12-15 cm (4.9-5.7 in) in length with a wingspan of only 27 cm (10.6 in) and weighing 36-48 g (1.3-1.7 oz), its petite size is its most defining characteristic. Adorned in cryptic gray-brown plumage with subtle streaking, a pale facial disk framed by distinct white 'eyebrows' above piercing yellow eyes helps it blend seamlessly...
Primarily inhabits arid desert scrublands, riparian woodlands, and thorn forests, particularly favoring areas with saguaro cacti, mesquite, and deciduous trees for nesting and roosting, typically at elevations from sea level up to 2100 meters.
Feeds almost exclusively on large nocturnal insects such as moths, beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers, supplemented by scorpions and other arachnids, which they catch by aerial hawking or gleaning.
Elf Owls are predominantly crepuscular and nocturnal, beginning their hunting forays at dusk and continuing into the night, then retreating to tree cavities or dense foliage to roost during the day. Their foraging strategy involves aerial pursuit, hawking insects on the wing, or gleaning them fro...
The breeding range of the Elf Owl spans the southwestern United States and Mexico. In the U.S., they breed across central and southern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and parts of southern Texas. Their breeding distribution extends south through Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nue...
Least Concern
- The Elf Owl is the world's smallest owl, scarcely larger than a sparrow. - It can successfully hunt and eat scorpions, skillfully severing the stinger before consumption. - These tiny owls primarily nest in abandoned woodpecker holes within saguaro cacti, offering vital protection from predator...