Merlin

Falco columbarius

The term “merlin” does not merely conjure up images of magic and myth, but it also conjures images of a small falcon. The merlin (Falco columbarius) is a small bird of prey or raptor. The merlin can also be referred to as a “merlin falcon” and used to be known as the pigeon hawk. Falcons are a type of bird-of-prey known for fast and agile flight. Merlins are found throughout the northern hemisphere.

Characteristics

Merlins are about the size of a pigeon and slightly bigger than an American kestrel. They average 24–33 cm (9.4–13.0 in) long with a 50–73 cm (20–29 in) wingspan, with the females often being bigger than the males. They are compact and weigh a bit more than other falcons of similar size with males weighing about 165 g (5.8 oz) and females weighing about 230 g (8.1 oz). There is much variation among the range and subspecies, however…

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