Merlins are the smallest European raptors.

Statistics
Merlins have a body length of 32-39cm, a wingspan of 65-82cm and weigh 0.13-0.3kg.

Physical description
The male is superficially similar in appearance to the sparrowhawk, but has pointed wings and streaked under-parts. They also have pale thighs and a bar at the tip of the tail. The female has brown under-parts.

Distribution
They range across the northern hemisphere, and in the UK they are found in the hills of Scotland, Wales and mostly northern England.

Habitat
They occupy a variety of habitats, including forest, tundra, moorland and prairies.

Diet
Merlins predominantly feed on small birds, but will also feed on small rodents and shrews.

Behaviour
Merlins migrate to temperate zones in the winter. They hunt with remarkable speed and manoeuvrability, flying close to the ground.

Voice
Merlins are usually silent except if they are disturbed near the nest, when they emit an alarm call similar to the kestrel (high-pitched kee-kee-kee).