Merlins are smaller falcons and their specific coloration and streaked patterning differs depending on gender and geographical location. However, overall males are gray and females and immature birds are brown. Although small Merlins pack power in their stockier build and fly at a speed of 30 miles per hour and flap their wings incredibly fast. While mainly consuming other birds, they typically attack their prey from either behind, from the side, or underneath. You can find Merlins in many forrests throughout North America as they nest in trees. 

Discover more about this cool species here.