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Saguaro National ParkJunior Rangers Raising the Flag
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Saguaro National Park
Elf Owl
Elf Owl

NPS

Elf Owl (Micrathene whitneyi)

This tiny, nocturnal hunter is also the world’s smallest owl. Because of their size, elf owls feed chiefly on insects - usually beetles and moths. Elf owls nest in former woodpecker holes or cavities in trees and saguaros. Elf owls migrate to southern Mexico before the end of October and return to the Sonoran desert by March to breed.

Length: 5.75 in. Wingspan: 13 in.

Diet: Insects and arthropods
Snow on the spines of a Saguaro Cactus  

Did You Know?
Even though the Sonoran Desert is known as very hot and dry place, snow sometimes falls and accumulates on the desert floor of Saguaro National Park. When it does it turns the desert into a winter wonderland.
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Last Updated: September 08, 2008 at 16:01 EST