little sexual dimorphism; streaked underparts (California, USA; 2009-01-04)


Merlin
Falco columbarius

Native Range: North America, Eurasia

Notes: a mid-sized falcon halfway between the smaller American Kestrel and the larger Peregrine Falcon; powerful and swift flyer on rather short pointed wings; captures birds and insects mid-air by hunting in open country.


adult has blue-gray back (California, USA; 2007-02-24)
short pointed wings and rapid flight (California, USA; 2007-08-11)

juvenile; brown back, streaked underparts (California, USA; 2007-03-03)
juvenile; browner overall than adult (Michigan, USA; 2006-08-21)

falcon 'mustache' visible even in flight (California, USA; 2008-04-13)