Elf Owl
Micrathene whitneyi
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Strigiformes · Strigidae
About
The elf owl is a small grayish-brown owl about the size of a sparrow found in the Southwestern United States, central Mexico, and the Baja California peninsula. It has pale yellow eyes highlighted by thin white "eyebrows" and a gray bill with a horn-colored tip. The elf owl frequently inhabits woodpecker holes in saguaro cacti; it also nests in natural tree cavities. It is nocturnal and feeds primarily on insects.
Fun Fact
The elf owl is the world's smallest and lightest owl, although the long-whiskered owlet and the Tamaulipas pygmy owl are of a similarly diminutive length.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Feed mainly on arthropods such as moths, crickets, scorpions, centipedes, and beetles.
Lifespan
6 years (captivity)
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance