Microtia elva, commonly known as the Elf Butterfly, is a small brush-footed butterfly in the family Nymphalidae and the only species in its genus. It is characterized by dark brown to black wings marked with distinct orange patches. The wing shape is slightly elongated, and the underside is more muted and mottled, providing camouflage when the butterfly rests. This species occurs in Mexico, Central America, and parts of northern South America, where it inhabits open tropical habitats and forest edges. Adults exhibit a slow, patrolling flight, and males are often territorial.