Merlin

Basic Information:

Scientific Name: Falco columbarius

Habitat: Merlin hawks can be found in open forests, grasslands, and coastal areas of the northern hemisphere. 

Diet: Merlin hawks are a predatory species and mostly prey on small birds and mice, but have been observed catching dragonflies and other insects.

Size: 0.8 to 1.1 feet high / 1.5 to 2.2 foot wingspan

Weight: 0.4 to 0.5 pounds

Lifespan: 6 to 8 years in the wild. Up to 10 years in human care.

Distribution Map:

I.U.C.N. Conservation Status:

What does this mean?

Least Concern – a species determined by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (I.U.C.N.) to be pervasive, abundant, and thriving.

Our Merlin:

Tyrion (Male) – Estimated Date of Birth Between March 2013 & July 2013

Did You Know?!

  • Merlins surprise attack small birds mid-air by sneaking in horizontally and catching prey in a high speed chase.
  • Typically, Merlins fly at about 30 mph, but high speed chases can exceed 50 mph.
  • Merlins were nicknamed “lady hawks” by Medieval falconers. Catherine the Great and Mary Queen of Scots both used Merlins to hunt skylarks, a small bird species native to Europe and Asia.
  • Merlins and American kestrels can be easily confused in the wild. Merlins lack a facial “mustache” stripe that is characteristic of Kestrels.
  • Merlins have hooked beaks, razor sharp talons, and excellent vision and hearing, all of which help them to capture prey animals.

Due to needing time to set up for our Wine in the Wilderness Event, on June 3rd the zoo will be closing to the public at 1pm! We will reopen our doors at 6pm for the event! Event tickets will still be purchasable at our gift shop during this time!