Merlin or juvenile Prairie Falcon ? (2 Viewers)

[nikovich]

This handsome little Devil was sat patiently on a Fence post today out near a Slough in Saskatchewan Canada

 

[birdpotter]

Good question.
I am going to say Merlin. How big is that fence post?
I believe its tail is the giveaway.

 

[Progne Subis]

My first thought was a Merlin too.

 

[Mike Johnston]

The barring on the tail would say Merlin to me.

 

[nikovich]

Hmm..I'm still on the fence lol don't Juve Prairie Falcons have barring on the tail too ?
I'm happy to accept Merlin though , the Bird was quite small .
thanks guys

 

[Dave B Smith]

Juve Prairie falcons have a very finely barred undertail whereas your bird has coarse barring. The only thing I didn't like for Merlin (which I think it is) is that the leg coloring appears dark rather than yellow. I assume that is just from the lighting?

 

[Mike Johnston]

Hmm..I'm still on the fence lol don't Juve Prairie Falcons have barring on the tail too ?
I'm happy to accept Merlin though , the Bird was quite small .
thanks guys

Merlin would be the much smaller bird. It would also have a less distinct moustache, and strong barring on the tail, which is the case here.

 

[nikovich]

Thankyou guys for all your help - I think you nailed it with Merlin.

 

[gerdwichers8]

It s lovely..untill you see some hunting migrating chaffinches!!
Any wants to fill a pillow?

(Na na na Gerd, do NOT overexagerate!)