The Elf Owl (Micrathene whitneyi) is the world's smallest owl species, standing only about 5 to 6 inches tall! Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, they often make their homes in woodpecker holes in saguaro cactus or in trees.
Elf Owls are primarily insectivores and have a keen ability to navigate in the dark thanks to their excellent night vision and silent flight capabilities.
Though tiny, these owls are mighty and resilient, perfectly adapted to their arid desert environments, and are known for their engaging nocturnal hoots.