Merlin: The Fierce Little Falcon

The Merlin (Falco columbarius) is a compact, powerful falcon known for its aggressive pursuit of small birds.

Identification

Merlins are stocky with a broad chest, short tail, and dark streaking below. They lack the strong facial pattern of kestrels.

Hunting and Migration

Merlins hunt by horizontal chases rather than stoops, often targeting flocks of songbirds and shorebirds. They are long-distance migrants, breeding in the north and wintering widely.

More in the Falcons hub.