Introducing the enchanting Elf Owl known as the tiniest owl in the world These small but mighty birds are fascinating creatures with a big impact on their ecosystems. Lets celebrate their remarkable presence in the natural world.

Today we bring to you an adorable little owl that stares out of a hole in a sycamore tree. This one-of-a-kind owl is none other than the elf owl, who peeps outside when nightfall arrives on a dry river bottom in West Texas. 

The elf owl is considered to be the smallest species of owl living in the world.In height, this bird is less than 6 inches tall and its weight is lower than an ounce and a half. So technically, this owl is similar to a tiny golf ball. 
Apparently, the elf owl is a cold-blooded hunter. When night arrives this bird comes out of its hollow in order to hunt for prey such as crickets, beetles, spiders, lizards, and even mice.

Image Credit: Jordan Crouch

Image Credit: Joshua Stewart

These merciless hunters are even not afraid to prey on poisonous creatures such as scorpions. After the stingers are removed, the scorpions are then stored in the nest to be consumed whenever they feel like it. 
You might come across the elf owl if you travel to woods and desert cactus environments located in the Southwest part of Texas and Southern Arizona. 
These birds generally reside in woodpecker holes made in the saguaro cactus in desert areas.

Even though elf owls appear to be very silent, they are undoubtedly ᴅᴇᴀᴅly. A rushing sound emanates when the air flows across the elf owl’s wings. 

The female of the species lays 1-4 eggs during spring and these eggs hatch in three weeks. In the beginning, the father elf owl goes hunting for food for the mother and chicks, but after some time the mother bird also joins the food hunting process.

When attacked by predators such as great-horned owls, these birds attempt to escape instead of fight. They even play ᴅᴇᴀᴅ in order to avoid the threat posed to them by predators. 

During the month of October, elf owls leave the United States and migrate to Mexico because of the warmer laтιтude there and the abundance of insects.
When springtime arrives in Southwest America, these cute little owls return to start nesting season.

Source

Related Posts

Capturing sweet moments with mama gorilla and her adorable baby. Forehead kisses and cuddles for the win

An incredible scene occurred at the Calgary Zoo when a mother gorilla presented her small youngster to the crowd, and some visitors were lucky enough to witness…

This hilarious video is just what we need for a good laugh this spooky season. Its the perfect way to embrace the Halloween spirit

Halloween is a time of year when the unexpected can occur.Tales of transformations abound, like siblings morphing into bats.But one day, an owl hilariously seemed to take…

An incredible moment of trust and understanding between a hunter and a scared deer. Compᴀssion wins over fear.

A hunter was driving along one night when he saw a ʙuттon buck with his back leg entangled in the wires of a fence. The poor thing…

Spooky season surprise This allwhite deer sighting is truly mesmerizing. Just in time for Halloween what a magical moment

For many people it’s not uncommon to spot a deer hanging around their home, but the sight of one deer recently left one couple stunned — a…

Unconditional love is the best medicine. This heartwarming bond between a dog and an autistic boy will make your day

Dogs are known as man’s best friend because of the incredible love and loyalty that they show their human owners. Now, a story is going viral that…

His genuine reaction to her news brought tears to his eyes. True emotions are beautiful to witness.

James Pack, a Vietnam veteran, had a heart attack and was admitted to the hospital in critical condition. The First State Animal Center and SPCA took care…