Least Pygmy-Owl

It is one of the smallest South American owls, averaging at 55 g (1.9 oz) and 15 cm (5.9 in) tall. Wing length can reach 85–91 mm (3.3–3.6 in), while the tail can reach a length of 49–54 mm (1.9–2.1 in). The head is rounded, with no ear tufts. The pale greyish-brown facial disk is not pronounced and shows some rufous concentric lines. The eyes are yellow, with whitish eyebrows. The upper part of the body is relatively dark, rufous-brown with small white spots. Wings are dark brown and relatively short. The tail is dark brown with five pale bars. The lower part of the body is light gray or white, with reddish-brown stripes. The throat shows a rounded whitish area. The legs are feathered, with bristled and yellowish toes. Claws are horn-colored with dark tips. The beak is yellow-green.

This species has a large range. It can be found in southeastern Brazil and easternmost Paraguay.