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Overview
Northern pygmy owl

Northern pygmy owl

Wikipedia

The northern pygmy owl is a small owl native to western North America.

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Distribution

Region

Western North America

Typical Environment

Found from southern Alaska and British Columbia through the Pacific Northwest and montane West into the Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountains, extending locally into northern Mexico. Prefers coniferous and mixed woodlands, forest edges, riparian corridors, and foothill scrub with scattered trees. Often hunts along clearings, edges, and open understories where prey is easier to spot. Uses old woodpecker cavities for nesting in mature forests.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 3000 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size16–18 cm
Wing Span30–38 cm
Male Weight0.06 kg
Female Weight0.07 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This tiny owl is unusually active by day, especially at dawn and dusk, which often surprises birders. It has bold black 'false eyes' on the back of its head that may confuse predators and prey. Small songbirds frequently mob it, revealing its presence. It often caches excess prey in tree cavities or dense foliage.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo
Pacific pygmy owl with eyespots behind head

Pacific pygmy owl with eyespots behind head

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with brief glides

Social Behavior

Typically solitary outside the breeding season; pairs form in late winter to spring. Nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes; the female incubates while the male provides food. Clutches usually contain 3–7 eggs, and fledglings remain nearby while adults continue feeding them.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of clear, evenly spaced toots, often accelerating slightly and carrying far through forests. Also gives sharp, high-pitched whistles and chatter when agitated, which can draw in mobbing songbirds.

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