The Northern Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium gnoma) is our smallest owl, at 7 inches tall, including its long tail. Because of its size, long tail, proportionally small head, and daytime hunting behavior, the Pygmy-owl is often misidentified or overlooked as just another brown bird in the brush. Watch for it near your winter feeder, where this fearless hunter may attempt to take small birds or mammals. It has sharply streaked undersides, but the most telling marks are the black patches on the back of its head that mimic eyes to deceive predator. To learn more visit https://wdfw.wa.gov/living/owls.html
Calls:
According to the WDFW the Northern Pygmy-owl common calls include a soft, hollow toot (one note every two seconds). Also a high rattle or rapid trill: tsisisisisisisi.
Viewing: Finding these owls can be difficult due to their size. Visual encounters with owls in general can be difficult because they spend most of their time perched high in trees or hidden within tree cavities. Because of the Pygmy-owl's small size they often go undetected.
Common Owls In Washington: Great Horned Owl, Short and/ or Long-eared owls, Western screech Owl, Northern saw-whet Owl, Northern Pygmy-Owl.
