Merlin

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Merlin
Merlin

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Merlin (Falco columbarius)

Date of admission: June 29, 2026.

Patient History:

Merlins are small but powerful falcons, measuring approximately 24–30 cm in length with a wingspan of 53–68 cm and weighing only 160–240 g. These speedy predators are found throughout North America and Eurasia, inhabiting northern forests, grasslands, and prairie regions.

In Alberta, Merlins occupy a variety of habitats, including wooded areas, open grasslands, and even some urban environments. Unlike many birds, Merlins do not build their own nests. Instead, they reuse abandoned stick nests originally built by species such as magpies, crows, ravens, or hawks. This adaptable behaviour allows them to successfully raise young in a variety of landscapes.

Most Merlins migrate south for the winter, travelling to areas of the United States, northern Mexico, and northern South America. However, some remain in Alberta year-round, particularly in urban areas where food sources such as House Sparrows are readily available.

These agile falcons are skilled aerial hunters, with small to medium-sized birds making up the majority of their diet. They often capture prey mid-flight and may even hunt cooperatively, with one bird flushing prey while the other intercepts. Their diet can also include insects, reptiles, and small mammals such as voles, mice, and bats.

Merlins are primarily monogamous, with males performing impressive aerial displays and offering food to females during courtship. They typically lay 4–5 eggs, which are incubated for approximately 28–32 days. Once hatched, young Merlins remain in the nest for about a month before they are ready to begin exploring the world around them.

This Merlin chick arrived at AIWC after falling from its nest. Unfortunately, the nest was located too high in the tree to safely access, leaving this young bird without a way to return home. Thankfully, a caring member of the public found the chick in their residential yard and brought it to AIWC for help.

In 2025, AIWC admitted 26 Merlins, with an additional 10 arriving so far in 2026. This young falcon is progressing well in our care and will continue receiving the specialized food, medical support, and rehabilitation it needs until it is ready to return to the wild.

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