Falcons

There are two types of Falcons in the area, the

The American Kestrel Falcon, photo taken by Michael Myers

Merlin and the American Kestrel. Like other Falcons, both have pointed wings and long tails. However, these two are smaller in size than all other Falcons, the American Kestrel being the smallest. The main difference between the two is that the Merlin's back and tail are a grey or brown colour, while the Kestrel's are rufous-coloured. They both come to the area during the summer months to breed, and migrate to South America in the winter. Their feathers are dashed with many colors, allowing them to blend in with most surroundings. They nest high up in the safety of trees, and are not often identified in the area. The reason for this is that the Merlin is commonly mistaken for the Cooper's Hawk, while the Kestrel is mistaken for the Sharp-shinned Hawk. They both can be found in or near areas with open country, farmlands, foothills, marshes, the forest's edge, dead trees, and on wires.