Merlin
Last Review/Updated: May 31, 2002
Falco columbarius
A fairly common summer resident, the merlin is a small (30 cm or 12 in. long), dull brown or bluish falcon that can be readily identified by its long pointed wings, tail with strong black bars, and the absence of facial markings. Adult males are powder blue, and females are brown on the crown, back and wings.
Merlins range throughout North America. In Alberta they are found in wooded courses in the south, and mixedwood areas near water in the north. These birds winter normally in the southern United States and South America, but a few regularly overwinter in urban areas of the province (e.g., Edmonton).
Nesting occurs in trees, usually in the abandoned nests of crows, magpies or other large birds, where 4 to 6 reddish-brown eggs with dark brown markings are laid. Merlins are fairly tolerant of humans and many will nest close to cities or farms. However, if the nest is approached too closely, the nesting pair will defend it vigorously.
Prey is killed in the air in the same manner as by the larger peregrine falcon. Small birds are caught and often eaten on the wing.
