The Fast & Furious Merlin
Merlins are small, fierce falcons. They are just slightly larger than the American Kestrel. I feel fortunate to have sighted this Merlin, who appeared to had already sighted me first.
Merlins are powerful, fast flyers. They travel around 30 mph (48 km), but are much faster during a high-speed chase.
Merlins eat mostly small birds. They typically chase the small bird upwards until it tires, then attack and catch it in midair.
High up on a snag, this Merlin was perched with his prey.
After he gave me a nice smile and profile stance in the next photo……
the Merlin went back to his prey, obviously knowing I was no threat.
Having only photographed a Merlin in flight, it was a pure delight for me to capture this series!
Photos by Donna 