Merlin
Falco columbarius (Linneaus)

Identification: It is a small sized bird , measuring about 31-36 cm. in length. The forehead, sides of the head and supercilium are white with black shaft streaks. The upper plumage is of a bluish slate colour with a broad and rufous hind collar. The edge of the tail is white, followed by a broad sub-terminal black band. The sides of the throat and the underparts are white, tinged with rufous and boldly streaked with black. The thigh and under-tail coverts are dark rufous.

Habitat: It is found near scrubs, in deserts, cultivated areas and mountain valleys.

Distribution: It is a winter visitor to all parts of Pakistan.

Breeding: It breeds in April-June and lays 4-5 eggs.

Food: It feeds mostly on small birds.

Status: Rare