For the Birds: Merlins - high flying nesters

Merlin in tree top
Photo by Barbara Diehl

By Christine Southwick

Have you seen, or heard (Kee-Keee-Kee) a fast-moving bird that reminded you of a pigeon, but was flying too fast and purposefully? If so, you have probably seen one of our locally nesting Merlins.

Merlins have dark, sharply pointed wings (hence the nickname “Pigeon Hawk”) a broad chest, and a long striped tail. Strong fliers, they have quick wingbeats and rarely glide. Merlins have streaky breasts — the males are gray, the females and juvies are brown. They are monogamous during each breeding season.

Photo by Barbara Deihl

Merlins are falcons that are heavier than American Kestrels, but smaller than Peregrines. Their typical flight speed is about 30mph, but they can move faster during a chase. They often chase their prey upward until it tires, or speed horizontally after small songbirds or shorebirds. They also eat dragonflies, which requires great maneuverability. Merlins will often work in hunting pairs, with one scattering and the other taking the bird.

Northwest Merlins prefer open to semi-open areas, and often breed near water. These fierce little raptors spend long periods of time perched in open areas, scanning for their prey.

As suitable habitat has dwindled, Merlins have started nesting in cities, using tall conifers with dead tops for their hunting perches. Merlins first started nesting in Seattle about 2009, and have since expanded to several sites in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park.

Merlins prefer dead tree tops
Photo by Barbara Deihl

Merlins don't make their own nests, but use the old nests of crows or other raptors. They prefer conifers at least 18 feet high with open tops, which make tall trees with dead tops prime real estate.

If you have such a tree in your yard, or your neighborhood, there are ways to make it a safe SNAG. The Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife call these trees “WildlifeTrees” 

“All trees of all sizes are potential snags. Unfortunately, many wildlife trees are cut down without much thought to their wildlife value or of the potential management options that can safely prolong the existence of the tree. Wildlife trees offer a one-stop, natural habitat feature. In short, snags “live on” as excellent wildlife trees for all to enjoy!"

Merlins in tree top
Photo by Barbara Deihl

Shoreline is a Community Wildlife Habitat, certified by the National Wildlife Federation. The NWF also has information on how to help wildlife by keeping dead or partially dead trees.

If you see a group of people in your neighborhood with scopes and binoculars looking up, they are probably watching the newly fledged Echo Lake Merlins. Pull safely to the side of the street, and quietly go up and talk to these Merlin enthusiasts. You'll be glad you did.