Raptor Wednesday

First Merlin sighting of the season: October 8th.

Luckily, Falco columbarius is known for perching for long periods.

And favoring the bare branches.

Second sighting, October 13th.

The bird took off when…

…a Red-tailed Hawk passed overhead.

But then came back. Merlin atop tree on far left. Atop the historical Chapel is:

our old friend, the male American Kestrel with a very delineated russet bib. About 300ft separated these two falcons.