A small fierce falcon — like a smaller, darker peregrine — that catches songbirds and dragonflies in level pursuit. Population has rebounded and expanded into prairie towns and suburbs.

Also called: Pigeon Hawk (older name)

Native status: Native; populations expanding into urban areas

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 24–30 cm (9.4–12 in); wingspan 53–73 cm
Weight130–340 g (4.6–12 oz); females larger
LifespanWild 6 years average; oldest documented 13
OrderFalconiformes
FamilyFalconidae

§ Encyclopedia

Merlin is a mythical figure prominently featured in the legend of King Arthur and best known as a prophet and a magician, along with several other main roles. The familiar depiction of Merlin, based on an amalgamation of historical and legendary figures, was introduced by the 12th-century Catholic cleric Geoffrey of Monmouth and then built on by the French poet Robert de Boron and prose successors in the 13th century. Geoffrey's account presented Merlin as a prophet and royal advisor to Arthur's father, Uther Pendragon.

Source: Wikipedia — Merlin Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Small dark falcon; males slate-blue back, females rufous-brown. Heavily streaked chest.

Similar species. American Kestrel (rusty back, distinct face pattern). Peregrine (much larger).

Voice. Sharp "ki-ki-ki" near nest.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small birds (primary), dragonflies, large insects, small mammals.

Behavior. Doesn't build own nests — takes over crow or magpie stick nests, increasingly in urban areas.

§ Range

Breeds across Canada and northern US; winters across the US into Central America

§ Habitat

Open forests, prairies, coastlines; increasingly nesting in urban conifer plantings

§ Threats

Pesticide bioaccumulation, window strikes, illegal trapping for falconry in some regions.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the merlin is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Maintain mature conifers in yards. Use window decals. Support falcon-friendly pesticide policies.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab — All About Birds
  • HawkWatch International
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2018