You’ve likely spotted Scout Elves peeking from bookshelves, dangling from fairy lights, or hiding in cereal boxes. But how much do you really know about Santa’s little helpers? 

From epic snowball battles to world-class flying skills, here are 10 surprising facts about Scout Elves that will wow your kids and might even stump the grown-ups! 

1. What’s the Most Popular Scout Elf Name? 

With millions of Scout Elves adopted around the globe, Aussie families have created their own fun names like Sparkle, Snag, Wombat, Snowball and even Vegemite! 

But the all-time most popular name worldwide? Buddy. Classic and oh-so-Christmassy. 

2. How Much Mail Do Elves Sort? 

In Santa’s Mail Room Grotto, Scout Elves help sort over 57 tonnes of post every single day. That includes all the handwritten wish lists from Aussie children, whether mailed from Brisbane or tucked inside a Christmas stocking in Hobart. 

3. How Many Languages Do Elves Speak? 

Scout Elves are multilingual marvels. They understand over 6,000 languages, including English, Auslan, Mandarin, Noongar, and more. No matter where you live or what language you speak at home, your Scout Elf understands every wish. 

4. How Far Do Scout Elves Travel Each Night? 

Every evening, Scout Elves soar back to the North Pole with a report for Santa. On average, they travel around 6,400 kilometres, that’s like flying from Darwin to Hobart and back in one night! 

5. How Do They Train? 

Before Scout Elf Return Week™, elves undergo advanced training in the North Pole’s Arctic Wind Tunnel, preparing them for all sorts of weather, especially hot Aussie summers and windy rooftop landings. 

6. How Long Can a Scout Elf Sit Still? 

Elves are masters of freeze-frame focus. There’s even a North Pole contest to see who can stay still the longest. The current record? 16 days, not even a blink. Now that’s dedication! 

7. How Fast Are Scout Elves? 

Super fast! One Scout Elf in Adelaide was spotted scaling a Christmas tree in just four seconds flat. Blink and you’ll miss them! 

8. Are They Good at Snowball Fights? 

They’re pros. At the annual North Pole Snowball Championship, Scout Elves can throw up to four snowballs per second. Even Santa ducks behind a sleigh bell for cover! 

9. How Old Are Scout Elves? 

They’re as old as Christmas itself! Scout Elves have been spreading joy and Christmas cheer for generations. They were around before pavlovas, poolside BBQs and even the first Aussie cricket test! 

10. How Fast Do They Load Santa’s Sleigh? 

Scout Elves work as a joyful team, helping load gifts into Santa’s sleigh for delivery across more than 190 countries. They can pack the whole sleigh in under three hours, with time to spare for double-checking the Nice List. 

Want to Know More? 

Curious how your elf picks hiding spots? Or what to do if they get accidentally touched? Head to our Elf on the Shelf® blog for trivia, activities, and magical tips that’ll keep the festive fun going strong.