Merlin vs Saker Falcon

In short

The Merlin and Saker Falcon can be distinguished primarily by size and habitat preference. The Merlin is a smaller falcon often found in open woodlands and urban areas, while the larger Saker Falcon prefers open plains and steppes. Both species have similar falcon-like silhouettes, but their size difference is a key identifier.

Identification tips

1. Size: Use size as a primary differentiator; Merlins are much smaller. 2. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Merlins are more likely in wooded or urban areas, Saker Falcons in open plains. 3. Plumage: Look for the more uniform and darker plumage of Merlins versus the paler and more contrasting plumage of Saker Falcons. 4. Behavior: Observe hunting behavior; Merlins are agile and fast, while Saker Falcons are powerful and robust hunters.

Size

Merlins are significantly smaller than Saker Falcons, with Merlins being about the size of a pigeon, whereas Saker Falcons are larger, closer in size to a Peregrine Falcon.

Plumage

Merlins have a more uniform, darker plumage with less contrast between the back and underparts, while Saker Falcons exhibit a more varied plumage with paler underparts and a more pronounced contrast between the back and belly.

Behaviour

Merlins are agile and fast flyers, often seen chasing small birds, while Saker Falcons are powerful hunters, typically preying on larger birds and mammals.

Habitat

Merlins are often found in open woodlands, edges of forests, and urban areas, whereas Saker Falcons prefer open plains, steppes, and semi-desert regions.

Voice

Both species have typical falcon calls, but specific vocalization details are not well-documented for field identification.