Ferruginous pygmy owl

The ferruginous pygmy owl is a diminutive owl species with an expansive range, spanning from south-central Arizona and southern Texas in the United States, through Mexico and Central America, down to Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina in South America. This species is one of the most widespread pygmy owls in these regions, typically inhabiting semi-open wooded areas.

This small owl belongs to the Strigidae family, commonly referred to as the typical owls. There are several subspecies of the ferruginous pygmy owl, each distinct to its geographical location. Recent genetic research has revealed significant differences between these populations, to the extent that the northern ridgwayi group is sometimes recognized as a separate species, known as Ridgway's pygmy-owl.

In contrast to many other owl species, the ferruginous pygmy owl is diurnal, with peak activity during dawn and dusk. It preys on a variety of animals, including birds, lizards, small mammals, and insects. When in flight, its movement resembles that of a woodpecker. It's not uncommon to observe small birds mobbing it while it perches in a tree. This owl is small and robust, with large feet and talons, and its plumage can range from grey-brown to a reddish-brown (rufous).

One of the most recognizable features of the ferruginous pygmy owl is its call, a series of whistled "hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo" notes. Birdwatchers often mimic this call to attract the attention of small birds. The owl's breeding season runs from late winter to early spring, during which it nests in cavities and lays between 1 to 7 white eggs that take approximately 28 days to hatch.

From a conservation perspective, the cactus ferruginous pygmy owl subspecies was once listed as Endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act due to habitat loss and the threat of fires, particularly those caused by buffel grass. Efforts were made to protect its habitat in Arizona, leading to its delisting in 2006. Nevertheless, conservation activities continue, especially in regions like Sonora, Mexico, to ensure the species remains protected.