Merlin
Birds of North America
Falco columbarius
Life, Habitat & Pictures of the Merlin
| Name | B L | W W | W | Family | Latin Name |
| Merlin | 10" 25.40cm | 24" 61cm | 6.5oz. 184.25g | Falconidae | Falco columbarius |
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Merlin
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Written by; Bruce Di Labio
French: Faucon émerillon
This compact and fast flying falcon was formerly known as the ``Pigeon Hawk`` because in flight it's shape was reminiscent of a pigeon. The Merlin breeds from north-western Alaska and central Canada, south to southern United States.
Over the last 30 years there has been a noticeable increase in the Merlin population, particularly in the Great Lakes Region. Slightly larger, than the more common American Kestrel, the Merlin is becoming more of an urban fixture, and now a common sight in most cities.
Merlins are opportunistic hunters. They prefer open country for hunting and mostly feed on small birds that are locally abundant, often catching them in flight. They also feed on large insects, primarily dragonflies, bats, rodents and reptiles.
The Merlin is primarily monogamous and typically uses abandoned stick nests of other raptors, crows or magpie, in areas that permit the adult a full view of surrounding areas. The female lays 4-5 whitish eggs that are lightly or heavily coloured with reddish brown marks.
The eggs are incubated primarily by the female for 28-32 days. During this time, the male feeds the female. While she eats, the male incubates. Young Merlins are fledged about 29 days after hatching, but remain near the nest and dependent upon the adults for food for one to four weeks.
Return Merlin back to Birds of Prey
Return Merlin back to Birds of North America
Classic Collection of North American Birds
CCNAB
