The Pygmy Owl is the smallest European nocturnal bird of prey, measuring about 16–19 cm in length and with a wingspan of 32–39 cm. It has grayish-brown plumage with white patches on its head and a stocky appearance. It feeds mainly on small mammals and birds, which it hunts during the day and at dusk. The Pygmy Owl is sedentary. It lives in mixed and coniferous forests, often at high elevations. It nests in tree cavities, using old woodpecker nests. The breeding season runs from April to July.