Elf Owl, Micrathene whitneyi

Elf Owl, Micrathene whitneyi. Photograph taken within a residential community in Hereford, Arizona, March 2004. Photograph and identification courtesy of Bob Behrstock, Sierra Vista, Arizona (naturewideimages.com).

Background and Identification

The Elf Owl, Micrathene whitneyi, is a member of the Strigidae Family of Owls. This owl species is the smallest in the world, and fully nocturnal. Their distinctive high-pitched, rapid calls—often described as a series of “whi-whi-whi” notes—are key identifiers. Despite their small size, these owls are feisty and well-adapted to their environments. Elf Owls, like many desert birds, require cavities for nesting. Nest trees (or cacti) sometimes support many nest holes in a condominium-like assemblage that can include Brown-crested Flycatchers, Gilded Flickers, Gila Woodpeckers, Elegant Trogons, Western screech owls, and Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers. In Mexico, this species is known as Mochuelo de Los Saguaros.

Elf Owls have a round head with no ear tufts, yellow eyes, and grayish-brown plumage with fine white markings that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark. They have prominent white “eyebrows”Their short tail and lightly feathered legs further characterize their petite appearance. Adults measure 13-15 cm. Sexes are usually monomorphic, but females can be slightly larger than males.

Habitat and Geographical Range

The Elf Owl is primarily found in arid and semi-arid regions, particularly deserts, scrublands, and dry woodlands. It often inhabits areas with saguaro cacti, mesquite trees, or sycamores, where it can find suitable nesting cavities. In areas like Texas, Elf Owls are more likely to use woodlands with hardwood trees or riparian corridors.

The geographical range of the Elf Owl spans the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, and extends into Mexico, where they are more widely distributed. In the northernmost part of their range, Elf Owls are migratory, spending winters in Mexico and returning north to breed during the warmer months.

Common Misidentifications

Due to its small size and nocturnal habits, the Elf Owl can sometimes be mistaken for fledgling owls of other species or small birds, such as sparrows, roosting during the day. It is most commonly confused with other small owls, such as the Northern Pygmy Owl, Glaucidium spp. However, the Elf Owl’s size (smaller than most Pygmy Owls) and lack of prominent spotting or streaking on its chest help distinguish it. The absence of ear tufts also sets the Elf Owl apart from similar-sized owls. Its habitat preferences and distinctive vocalizations are additional clues for proper identification.

Conservation Perspective

From a conservation perspective, The Elf Owl is categorized by the IUCN as Least Concern. Populations are stable overall, but local declines have been noted in areas where habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, or deforestation has reduced the availability of nesting sites. This species relies heavily on natural cavities, such as those in saguaro cacti or woodpecker holes, for nesting. Conservation efforts focus on preserving desert and riparian habitats, maintaining mature trees, and protecting areas with saguaro cacti. Artificial nest boxes have also been successfully used to support populations in some areas.