Key information
The UK's smallest bird of prey, this compact, dashing falcon has a relatively long, square-cut tail and rather broad-based pointed wings, shorter than those of other falcons. Its wingbeat tends to be rapid with occasional glides, wings held close to the body.
In winter, the UK population increases as most of the Icelandic breeding birds migrate to our warmer climate. Although recovering from a population crash in the late 20th century, it is on the Red List. It is a Schedule 1 listed species on The Wildlife and Countryside Act.
What they eat:
Mainly small birds.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 25-30cm
- Wingspan:
- 50-62cm
- Weight:
- 125-234g (male); 164-300g (female)
Population:
- UK breeding:
- 900-1,500 pairs
Identifying features:
This bird species has different identifying features depending on sex/age/season.
Merlin (male)
Merlin (female/juvenile)
