Merlin

🔍 Overview

The UK’s smallest falcon, a fierce and fast hunter often seen darting low over open country. Winter visitor in Sussex.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Small and compact

Male: Blue-grey above, orange below

Female/Juv.: Heavily streaked and brown

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Seen in winter on South Downs, Chantry and Cissbury, and heathland like Ashdown Forest.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Sharp “kik-kik” calls in breeding grounds (silent in Sussex). Often flies low and fast when hunting.