Merlins, Falco columbarius, are stocky, strong falcons. This bird of prey was found wintering at Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. Merlins have an average flight speed of 30 miles per hour.
Merlins spend their summers in northern North America where they breed in open areas near rivers and lakes. Some have taken over crow’s nests in residential areas.
Their favorite foods are a variety of small to medium-sized birds. They enjoy House Sparrows and Least Sandpipers. Watch for Merlins to mount a high-speed attack where they will catch a bird in midair. Merlins also dine on dragonflies, bats, rodents, reptiles, and nesting birds.
The Merlin population significantly declined in the 1960s from pesticides. With reduced pesticide use, their population has stabilized. Loss of habitat is also a concern but Merlins have adapted by taking up residence in human neighborhoods.
