ELF OWL is a member of the owl family Strigidae, that breeds in the southwestern United States and Mexico.

ELF OWL is a member of the owl family Strigidae, that breeds in the southwestern United States and Mexico.


It is the world's lightest owl, although the Long-whiskered Owlet and the Tamaulipas Pygmy Owl are of a similarly diminutive length.
The mean body weight of this species is 40 grams (1.4 oz). These tiny owls are 12.5 to 14.5 centimetres (4.9 to 5.7 in) long and have a wingspan of about 27 cm (10.6 in).
Their primary projection extends nearly past their tail. They have fairly long legs and often appear bow-legged.
They can often be heard calling to one another just after dusk or at sunset.
Their call is a high-pitched whinny or chuckle. The male and female dart around trees and call back and forth.