The Merlin is a compact, dashing falcon with the fast, direct wingbeats and bold hunting style of a miniature Peregrine. It specializes in chasing and catching small songbirds and shorebirds in level pursuit. It has colonized many Canadian prairie cities, nesting in spruce trees in neighborhoods — a remarkable adaptation to urban life.
Best time to see a Merlin
The best time to see a Merlin is September–January, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 19,360 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Merlin? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Merlin sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Merlin?
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