Did you know the Elf Owl (Micrathene whitneyi) is one of the smallest owl species in the world? The tiny raptor only grows about 5.6 inches (14.2 centimeters) long with a weight of around 1.9 ounces (55 grams). It’s native to parts of the southern United States and Mexico, where it lives in a variety of habitats including savannas and forests. Unlike other owls, the Elf Owl prefers to avoid conflict and may play dead or make an escape if threatened or confronted. It mainly feeds on insects but also eats small mammals and reptiles from time to time. When settling in for a meal, it plucks off dangerous bits—like a scorpion’s stinger—before consuming. Photo: Richard Crossley
