Merlin

Falco columbarius · Legendary Welsh wizard
Order
Falconiformes
Codes
merlin, MERL

About the Merlin

Merlin is a mythical figure prominently featured in the legend of King Arthur and best known as a prophet and a magician, along with several other main roles. The familiar depiction of Merlin, based on an amalgamation of historical and legendary figures, was introduced by the 12th-century Catholic cleric Geoffrey of Monmouth and then built on by the French poet Robert de Boron and prose successors in the 13th century. Geoffrey's account presented Merlin as a prophet and royal advisor to Arthur's father, Uther Pendragon.

Source: Wikipedia

Taxonomy & Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderFalconiformes
FamilyFalcons and Caracaras (Falconidae)
SpeciesFalco columbarius
Species Codesmerlin, MERL

Frequently Asked Questions

What family does the Merlin belong to?

The Merlin (Falco columbarius) belongs to the Falcons and Caracaras family (Falconidae), in the order Falconiformes.

How can I identify the Merlin?

Merlin is a mythical figure prominently featured in the legend of King Arthur and best known as a prophet and a magician, along with several other main roles. The familiar depiction of Merlin, based on an amalgamation of historical and legendary figures, was introduced by the 12th-century Catholic c...

Where can I report a Merlin sighting?

You can log sightings of Merlin on eBird (ebird.org) using species code merlin, or on iNaturalist.