The Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl is a tiny, diurnal owl of the Sonoran Desert and South Texas, slightly larger than the Elf Owl. It has dark eye-spot markings on the back of its head that resemble eyes — possibly deterring predators. Despite its small size it regularly hunts prey larger than itself, including lizards and small birds.
Best time to see a Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl
The best time to see a Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl is February–May, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 271 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl sightings near you
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