Pygmy owls typically eat a variety of small animals, including insects, small rodents, and birds. They are opportunistic predators and will eat whatever prey is available.
Insects make up a large part of the pygmy owl's diet. They eat a variety of insects, including beetles, moths, crickets, and grasshoppers. Pygmy owls also eat small rodents, such as voles, mice, and shrews.
Occasionally, pygmy owls will eat small birds. They will typically target small, passerine birds, such as sparrows, finches, and chickadees.