Birdsong field guide
Merlin
Falco columbarius
A small, powerful falcon known for its rapid, level flight and aggressive pursuit of small birds. It is sturdier and more pugnacious than the American Kestrel, lacking the kestrel's distinct facial patterns.
What it sounds like
A rapid, high-pitched, and piercing chatter described as 'ki-ki-ki-ki-ki'.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
0:00 / 4:37
Field notes
- Historically referred to as 'lady hawks,' they were the preferred falconry bird of noblewomen like Mary, Queen of Scots.
- Merlins do not build their own nests, instead utilizing abandoned stick nests of crows, magpies, or other raptors.
- Unlike many hawks that soar on thermals, Merlins rely on constant, flickering wingbeats to capture prey through high-speed aerial chases.
- Three distinct subspecies exist in North America: the widespread Taiga, the pale Prairie (Richardson’s), and the dark Coastal (Black) Merlin.
- They are increasingly successful in urban environments, often hunting house sparrows and nesting in mature conifers within city parks.
Habitat
Open country, forest edges, coastal marshes, and urban residential areas with mature trees.
Range
Holarctic; breeds across northern North America and Eurasia, wintering south to northern South America and North Africa.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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