A female merlin (Falco columbarius) perches on the branch of a dead tree on a bright, overcast day. This bird was found near Colorado Springs.
Merlins are small, compact birds of the falcon family of raptors. They're about the same size as kestrels, but heavier, and so appear larger. Females are larger than males. Merlins have been used for centuries in falconry, often called 'lady hawks," because they were used by noblewomen. Merlin pairs will often hunt cooperatively, with one bird flushing prey toward its mate. Their prey is often small songbirds, but will also feed on dragonflies, bats, bird nestlings, and small mammals. They are speedy and agile, and can capture a bird on the wing.
Size: 5200px × 3467px
Location: Colorado, USA
Photo credit: © Denise Dethlefsen / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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