Elf Owl

The elf owl, Micrathene whitneyi, is a diminutive owl, comparable in size to a sparrow. Its plumage is a subtle grayish-brown, and it boasts pale yellow eyes framed by delicate white "eyebrows." The bill is gray with a horn-colored tip, contributing to its distinctive facial features.

Identification Tips

This species is recognized as the world's smallest owl, with a body length ranging from 12.5 to 14.5 cm and a wingspan of approximately 27 cm. The elf owl's primary flight feathers extend almost beyond its tail, and it has relatively long legs, which can give it a bow-legged appearance.

Habitat

Elf owls are often found in chaparral environments and are known to inhabit woodpecker holes in saguaro cacti, as well as natural cavities in trees such as sycamores and cottonwoods.

Distribution

These owls are migratory, with some populations moving to the southwestern United States for breeding in the spring and summer, and retreating to central and southern Mexico during the winter. There are also resident populations in south-central Mexico and along the Baja peninsula.

Behaviour

Elf owls are nocturnal and exhibit a behavior known as feigning death when threatened, which may allow them to escape from predators. They are territorial, with both males and females defending their territory, often through song. During breeding season, they are monogamous and form breeding pairs, but may also be seen in small groups during migration or when mobbing predators.

Song & Calls

The elf owl's vocalizations are high-pitched and can resemble a young puppy's whinny or chuckle. Males have a more complex repertoire of songs used for territorial proclamation and attracting mates, while females typically sing locational calls.

Breeding

Breeding pairs of elf owls often choose north-facing abandoned woodpecker cavities in saguaro cacti or hardwood trees. They may lay one to five eggs per clutch, with three being most common. The eggs are incubated for about 24 days, and the young fledge at approximately 10 weeks of age.

Diet and Feeding

Elf owls primarily feed on insects such as moths, crickets, and beetles, but they will also consume scorpions, small mammals, reptiles, and occasionally birds. They are adept hunters, capturing prey in flight or foraging in vegetation.

Conservation status

The elf owl is currently not considered globally threatened, but it is listed as "endangered" in California due to habitat loss from human activities. Efforts are underway to preserve their desert and riparian habitats and to bolster their populations through captive breeding programs.