The elf owl, Micrathene whitneyi, is recognized as the world’s smallest owl, measuring between 12.4 to 14.2 centimeters (5 to 5.5 inches) and weighing 35 to 55 grams. This diminutive bird is primarily nocturnal, active during dusk, dawn, and throughout the night.
Global Range
The elf owl’s range spans the southwestern United States and extends into Mexico. In the United States, it is found in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and California. In Mexico, it is found in Sonora, Baja California, and central and southern regions. Northern populations are migratory, moving south to central and southern Mexico for winter and returning north in mid-April to early May for breeding. Other populations, like those in southern Baja California and Puebla, Mexico, are non-migratory, remaining in their regions year-round.
Preferred Environments
The elf owl inhabits various arid and semi-arid environments. It is found in saguaro cactus forests, utilizing abandoned woodpecker cavities for nesting and roosting. Saguaro cacti walls provide insulation, protecting from harsh desert temperatures.
Riparian woodlands, with trees like sycamore, cottonwood, willow, and oak, are also important habitats. These areas provide abundant nesting sites and food sources. The owl also occupies arid desert scrublands and subtropical thorn woodlands. It can adapt to partially urbanized or agricultural areas, sometimes using utility poles or fence posts for nesting.
How They Thrive
Elf owls consume arthropods, including moths, crickets, scorpions, centipedes, and beetles. They obtain all moisture from prey, reducing their need to drink water. Hunting occurs during nocturnal hours, using a sit-and-wait strategy, striking prey directly or capturing insects in flight. They can remove the stinger from scorpions before consumption.
Elf owls depend on abandoned woodpecker cavities for nesting, such as those excavated by Gila woodpeckers, Northern Flickers, and Acorn woodpeckers. These cavities provide shelter from predators and extreme temperatures, contributing to high breeding success.
Protecting Their Home
The elf owl is currently classified as “Least Concern” globally due to its wide distribution and large population. However, populations are declining in many areas, particularly in California, where the species is listed as endangered. Habitat loss and degradation are significant threats, primarily due to deforestation, water diversion for agriculture and human development, and the spread of invasive plant species like salt cedar. Conservation efforts include captive breeding programs in California aimed at increasing numbers. Preserving and restoring riparian and desert ecosystems, and providing artificial nest boxes, are important actions to support elf owl populations.