ExploreBird

Merlin

Falco columbarius

The Merlin is a small, speedy falcon! They are great at flying fast to catch their food in the sky.

Appearance

The Merlin is a small, compact falcon with pointed wings. Males have a slate-grey back with rufous-streaked underparts, while females and juveniles are browner. They possess a short, dark tail often with light bands, and lack the prominent malar stripe of larger falcons.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderFalconiformesFamilyFalconidaeGenusFalco

Merlin

Interesting facts

Despite their small size, Merlins are fierce hunters of much larger birds!

Merlins are sometimes called 'pigeon hawks' due to their speed and hunting style!

Merlins often hunt in pairs, coordinating their attacks on fast-flying prey!

They prefer to nest in old crow or hawk nests, rather than building their own!

Special abilities

Merlin can make lightning-fast turns because of their compact body and pointed wings that help them pursue agile prey.

Merlin has keen eyesight and quick reflexes that help them spot and ambush small birds in open country.

Merlin can glide and soar efficiently because of their aerodynamic shape and strong flight muscles that help them conserve energy.

Measurements & details

Length: 24-33 cm
Wingspan: 53-73 cm
Weight: 0.12-0.25 kg
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Top Speed: 80 km/h
Clutch Size: 3-6
Incubation: 28-32 days
Migration Distance: 5000 km

Diet & Feeding

Merlins are expert hunters that primarily eat small birds and insects.

Primary Foods

small birds
dragonflies
moths
grasshoppers
voles

Foraging Method

Pursuit

Ecological connections

hunts

House Sparrow

Passer domesticus

a common prey item in open and semi-urban areas.

hunts

Water Pipit

Anthus spinoletta

often targeted in coastal and open grassland habitats.

depends on

American Crow

Corvus brachyrhynchos

often uses old crow nests for breeding purposes.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Aerial

Discover amazing creatures that spend much of their lives soaring high above the ground, often using wings to fly! They might hunt, travel, or even sleep up in the sky.

Grassland

These wide-open spaces are covered in grasses, often home to grazing animals and incredible predators! Experience the vastness of the plains.

Carnivorous

Discover fierce hunters and clever predators that get all their energy from eating other animals. They play a vital role in keeping nature's balance.

Diurnal

Wake up with creatures that are most active during the day! They love the sunshine for finding food, playing, and exploring.

Speedster

Discover creatures that dart, zip, and fly with incredible swiftness, making them masters of rapid movement in their habitats. They are built for speed, whether chasing prey or escaping danger.