In response to both Scott R's and Gregg T' observations of Merlins
interacting with Stellers Jays and Northern Flickers at a couple of
parks last week, I am recalling that I, too, have witnessed similar
behavior. In watching just-fledged Merlins in July and August of the
past few years, I have seen (and photographed) what seemed to me to be
'play' between the young Merlins and, what I assumed to be, young
flickers and jays as well. The Merlins often hang out in the dead top
of a Douglas fir for a few weeks after fledging, and often some jays
or flickers will fly in and there will be some "half-hearted" chasing
through the neighborhood, ending up back on the deadtop, frequently
perching near each other. I figured that the young birds were just
starting to learn about the ways of the other species with whom they
are sharing their 'growing-up' area for the summer. They really seem
to be having a good time.

But that these same species are still doing some of the same kinds of
interacting, just may mean that at least some of these birds are still
youngish (at least the Merlins) and still are getting in more
practice. Adult Merlins usually will seek smaller birds as prey.
They can successfully capture and kill larger birds (including
pigeons), but the energy expenditure is greater to both catch them and
then, carry them off to eat. Over time, the little dynamo Merlins
must figure this out and seek out prey that is smaller than they are.
Of course, size isn't the only factor...

The Cedar Waxwings that Scott watched at Magnuson, had better take
care - a little more practice by that Merlin and one of them could
become 'toast' or at least some part of breakfast. I think the
flickers and jays are a bit safer - they are learning to use that
taunting aspect of their character!



Barb Deihl

North Matthews Beach - NE Seattle

barbdeihl at comcast.net