Merlin

The merlin, Falco columbarius, is a compact and robust falcon, known for its swift flight and skilled hunting abilities. Males typically have a wingspan of 53–58 centimetres, with females being slightly larger. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males and females differing in size and, to some extent, coloration.

Identification Tips

Male merlins boast a blue-grey back, which can range from nearly black to silver-grey across subspecies. Their underparts are buff to orange-tinted, streaked with darker shades. Females and immatures are brownish-grey to dark brown above, with lighter, spotted underparts. The species has a distinctive tail pattern with several wide, dark bands and a narrow white band at the end.

Habitat

Merlins favour open habitats with a mix of low and medium-height vegetation, including willow or birch scrub, taiga forest, parks, grasslands, and moorlands. They are adaptable and can be found from sea level to the treeline, avoiding dense forests and arid regions devoid of trees.

Distribution

This falcon breeds across the northern Holarctic and migrates to subtropical and northern tropical regions in winter. Its range extends throughout North America and Eurasia, with several subspecies recognized on each continent.

Behaviour

Merlins are known for their agile flight, often flying fast and low to surprise prey. They are unafraid and aggressive hunters, capable of taking on prey as large as themselves. These birds are also known for their communal roosting behaviour in winter, particularly in Europe.

Breeding

Merlins typically breed in May and June, using abandoned nests of other birds or making shallow scrapes on the ground. They lay three to six eggs, with the female predominantly incubating them. The young fledge after about 30 days and remain dependent on their parents for several weeks.

Similar Species

The merlin can be confused with the American kestrel in North America and the red-necked falcon in Asia. However, differences in back and tail coloration, as well as size and hunting behaviour, can help distinguish the merlin from these species.

Diet and Feeding

Merlins primarily prey on small to mid-sized birds, but their diet can also include insects, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. They are versatile hunters, taking advantage of a variety of prey items depending on availability.

Conservation status

The merlin is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with stable populations across much of its range. However, habitat destruction poses a long-term threat, and past use of pesticides has caused declines in some regions.