In amazing fashion, Merlie the Merlin has returned to the same wintering spot for the 16th consecutive year! Retired Stanford University Professor and accomplished birder Kendric Smith has documented Merlie visiting the same tree since 1992. The avian literature states that it is rare for Merlins to live for more than 8 years, but this type of data is very difficult to collect.

The Merlin (Falco columbarius) is a small falcon that breeds in northern forests and grasslands of North America, Europe, and Asia. Merlins are slightly larger than the more common American Kestrel (Falco sparverius), and spend their winters from Oregon south to Central America. Kendric has done an outstanding job of documenting Merlie’s annual return and departure from his wintering grounds in Palo Alto, CA. Kendric recently reports that Merlie departed his wintering location for unknown destinations.

Kendric’s effort serve as yet another example of how birders increase our understanding of avian natural history. You can read more about Merlie and Merlins on Kendric’s website.