The Northern Pygmy-Owl is a tiny but fierce owl of western mountain forests that regularly hunts prey larger than itself, including small birds and mammals. It is diurnal and crepuscular, often active at dawn and dusk when small birds mob it aggressively. The dark eye-spots on the back of its head act as false eyes to deter predators from behind.
Best time to see a Northern Pygmy-Owl
The best time to see a Northern Pygmy-Owl is January–July, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,272 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Northern Pygmy-Owl? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Northern Pygmy-Owl sightings near you
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