The ferruginous pygmy owl is small, typically 15 cm (5.9 in), and stocky with disproportionately large feet and talons.
The crown has elongated white/buff streaks, the wing coverts have white spots, and the underparts are heavily streaked white.
There are prominent white supercilia above the facial disc.
There are dark two spots on the nape, often termed "false eyes" by birders.

Otherwise, its overall color is highly variable, ranging from grey-brown with a black-and-white barred tail to rich rufous with a uniform rufous tail.
Sexes are similar with females slightly larger and often more reddish.
The ferruginous pygmy owl is small, typically 15 cm (5.9 in), and stocky with disproportionately large feet and talons. The crown has elongated white/buff streaks, the wing coverts have white spots, and the underparts are heavily streaked white. There are prominent white supercilia above the facial disc. There are dark two spots on the nape, often termed "false eyes" by birders.
Otherwise, its overall color is highly variable, ranging from grey-brown with a black-and-white barred tail to rich rufous with a uniform rufous tail. Sexes are similar with females slightly larger and often more reddish.
Ferruginous pygmy owl