Merlin Watching in Oregon

Merlins are small falcons that are sometimes known as Pigeon Hawks, and they are found throughout Oregon, though typically not in large numbers. Most of the Merlins found in the state will spend their summer breeding in Canada, though in the high deserts in northeast Oregon there are some who breed and spend the entire year. The Merlin is usually around one foot long as an adult, and have a strong-looking compact body.Among the more fearless birds of prey, the Merlin only eats other birds, and they are often found near larger hawks, to attack prey that has been flushed out of a nest by another hunting bird. Merlins usually fly low, often only a few feet off the ground, and are sometimes known to attack even larger birds.

Habitats for Merlins

Merlins prefer open woodlands to dense forests, and they are often spotted in fields and clearings near clusters of trees. They take over old nests made by other birds, so they are very adaptable and can be found in many different types of environment. Merlins are often found in the Tualatin National Wildlife Refuge among other places in the area, and they are known to breed in Oregon, though mainly in the northeastern part of the state

Best seasons to see Merlins in Oregon

In most of the state the Merlin is found from fall through spring, spending summers and breeding in Canada.

Merlins in Oregon summary

Typical habitat: Open woodlands
Seasons: Fall through spring
Abundance: Present, but not one of the more common falcons in the state

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