Class:
Aves
Family:
Falconidae
Common Name:
Merlin
Genus:
Falco
Species Name:
columbarius
About The Merlin
Merlins are the smallest falcon species in Europe. They eat mostly songbirds, which they follow during the migration. Most of their prey consists of birds such as pipits, larks, wheatears, finches and buntings. By flying rapidly and just above the ground, they surprise these small birds. They fly the last few meters like a nistle thrush, perhaps as extra camouflage. Sometimes, merlins chase their prey long enough to tire them out so they no longer can escape.
Rights Holder: Copyright Ecomare
Trips Where Observed
Japan
Panama
Texas
Uganda and stops between
Member Lifelists
Asia
California
North America
San Francisco
United States
World
Sites Where Observed
1/4/2015
Not 100% sure on ID. Lighter colored than prairie falcon, but soaring in the same way high up and far away.
