as small as a world and as large as alone

11:23am June 21, 2014

rhamphotheca:

ABC Bird of the Week:  Elf Owl

The 1.4-ounce Elf Owl is the smallest in North America: about the size of a sparrow and just as small as Peru’s Long-whiskered Owlet. Unlike many owls, these birds are not aggressive and will “play dead” or retreat in a dangerous situation.

Elf Owls have declined as habitat has been developed for homes and agriculture. Riparian areas in their range are under threat due to water diversion for agriculture and household use, as well as invasive plants (especially salt cedar). The species is listed as endangered in California and is on ABC’s WatchList.

This owl has more than a dozen different vocalizations, including a high-pitched whinny or chuckle.

Northern populations migrate south to winter in Mexico. Elf Owls nest in natural cavities and abandoned woodpecker holes found in saguaro cacti and oak and sycamore trees…

(read more: American Bird Conservancy)

photo by Terry Sohl

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