merlin
1) Bird Name
The bird in question today is the Merlin, known scientifically as Falco columbarius.
2) Appearance
The Merlin is a small species of falcon, precise and quick. Male Merlins sport a mystic blue-grey colored back, aided with a creamy, orange-brown, barred chest and belly. Females and juveniles, on the other hand, display a more generalized dark brown coloration atop their bodies, with a creamy, streaked underbody. Both sexes possess dark bands decorating their tails. They are small yet fierce, characterized by an angular, pointed pair of wings and a relatively long tail.
3) Size
Merlins are small birds, measuring on average 24-33 centimeters in length, or approximately 9.5-13 inches. The wingspan ranges from 50 to 73 centimeters (20 to 29 inches). Though small in stature, they weigh a sturdy 165-210 grams.
4) Habitat & Distribution
Merlins are circumpolar and can be found across the cold northern forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, they typically dwell in the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska, though some individuals may winter as far south as Mexico. They prefer open and semi-open habitats, such as moorlands, farmland, and coastal areas, where their their field of view isn’t impeded.
5) Interesting Facts
Merlins are renowned for their speed and agility, particularly when hunting. They often chase their prey in a fast, low flight, cleverly using the element of surprise for a successful hunt. Remarkably, they are one of the few bird species known to exhibit cooperative hunting, in which pairs team up to take down their prey. The Merlin’s energy and fearlessness despite its small size have made it a favorite among falconers.
6) Diet
Merlin diets mainly consist of small to medium-sized birds, such as sparrows and starlings, which they catch in flight. They are top-tier predators, and though small, they are no less formidable. They also occasionally feed on insects and rodents.
7) Behavior & Sounds
Merlins exhibit a robust, direct flight pattern and take a fearless approach to larger birds entering their territory. The males display a roller-coaster-like flight to impress females during courtship. They tend to prefer direct pursuits over the typical hover-and-dive strategy of larger falcons. Their calls are a series of fast, high-pitched, repetitive cheeping sounds.
8) Conservation Status
As per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Merlin’s conservation status is of ‘Least Concern’, due to their broad range and stable population sizes. However, they are still vulnerable to habitat loss and pesticides.
9) Lifespan
The typical lifespan of a Merlin in the wild is about 6-13 years. In captivity, where threats are minimized, they can live up to around 20 years.
10) Additional Notes
In different regions, the Merlin is known by numerous colloquial names. In Ireland, it is known as ‘Smólach geala’ and in Wales as ‘Cudyll coch’. The Merlin’s ecological role as a predator helps control the population of smaller bird species. They coexist peacefully with humans unless provoked or endangered. Their nests are typically made on the ground or on ledges, making them susceptible to predators including larger birds and terrestrial animals.
