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falco columbarius

Merlin (Falco columbarius)

Extreme speed and diminutive size are the signature characteristics of the merlin, Ireland’s smallest raptor. This is a very agile bird, flying low to the ground at great speed as it twists and turns after its prey. Adult merlins are only 32-39cm (12.5-15.5 inches) long with a wingspan of 65-82cm….