Merlin (bird) Merlin (bird) The merlin ("Falco columbarius") is a small species of falcon from the Northern Hemisphere, with numerous subspecies throughout North America and Eurasia. A bird of prey once known colloquially as a pigeon hawk in North America, the merlin breeds in the northern Holarctic; some migrate to subtropical and northern tropical regions in winter. Males typically have wingspans of , with females being slightly larger. They are swift fliers and skilled hunters who specialize in preying on small birds in the size range of sparrows to quail. The merlin has for centuries been well regarded as a falconry bird.
The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! is a 2008 picture book by Mo Willems about a pigeon that really wants a puppy, but on receiving the animal has second thoughts. "BookList", reviewing "The Pigeon Wants a Puppy!", wrote " Willems skillfully executes the formula that made previous Pigeon titles so popular: minimal artwork that places all the attention on the cajoling little bird, whose words and body language will strike a chord of familiarity with every child. Once again, kids will reach the story's end wondering what Pigeon will want next." and the "School Library Journal"