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.
Metallic pigeon Metallic pigeon The metallic pigeon, ("Columba vitiensis") also known as white-throated pigeon is a medium-sized, up to 37 cm long, bird in the family Columbidae. The adult has an iridescent purple and green crown, black wing and uppertail coverts, yellowish red iris, yellow bill, red orbital skin, white or grey chin and ear coverts, and purplish feet. It has a dull chestnut or glossed purple green below, depends on subspecies. The nominate form "C. v. vitiensis" from Fiji has a dull underparts, while subspecies "C. v. halmaheira" of Maluku Islands has the most iridescent plumage. Both sexes are similar. The