Bird names do change (although I would argue its not all that often), but the Merlin's name has not changed since at least the 70's or so when it was often known as the Pigeon Hawk. I think that is enough time for us to have adapted to that change.



On the same note I have heard people say "Redhead (or Red-headed) Duck", instead of just Redhead. As Bud observed with the use of "Merlin Falcon", it is often a beginner, or non-birder who says it. If I've just met someone while birding and hear them say such things I don't usually them - you never know how easily embarassed someone you have just met is. BUT - I think in a forum such as Tweeters where we come to learn about birds, such a correction is appropriate. I think Bud went out of his way to be kind about it, so let's just take it as a learning moment as I think it was intended.



P.S. I've also heard "Sora Rail" and any other number of redundancy names. Anyone else hear others?



Jim Flynn
Seattle, WA




Jim Flynn
Seattle, WA