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Merlin

Falco columbarius ORDER: FALCONIFORMES FAMILY: FALCONIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

Merlin Photo

© 2004 Cornell Lab of Ornithology

A small falcon of northern forests and prairies, the Merlin is the least well-marked of the American falcons. It is becoming a regular breeder in urban areas.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Hawks
Hawks
Typical Voice

Adult Description

Small hawk. Long, pointed wings. Long, banded tail. Faint mustache mark. Brown streaking on chest and belly. Back unmarked gray or brown.

Immature Description

Similar to adult female.

Range Map Help

Merlin Range Map
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Similar Species

  • American Kestrel is slightly smaller, has well defined face stripes, has light tail with dark tip or many thin bands, and has rufous on back.
  • Prairie Falcon is much larger, has a more defined facial pattern, lacks bands on tail, and has dark in base of underside of wings.
  • Sharp-shinned Hawk with shorter, more rounded wings.