The cloud-forest pygmy owl is a small owl, 14.5 –16 cm (5.7–6.3 in) in length with a 92.8–96.3 cm (3.7–3.8 in) wingspan. Weight can range from 75.6 to 79.3 g (2.7 to 2.8 lb). The male and female have similar markings and plumage, but as in many birds of prey this pygmy owl may display sexual dimorphism in size, with the female being more than 3% larger and more than 3% heavier than the male. The standard linear measurements are: the tail measures 46.8 mm (1.8 in) and the bill (from cere to tip) measures 11.3 mm (0.4 in). (Note that all these measurements come from only three males and one female of "Glaucidium nubicola".)