Wildlife

Wild Merlin Migration Welfare

Merlins breeding in UK uplands migrate to lowland and coastal areas for winter with welfare challenges at both seasonal locations.

Key Facts

Merlin breeding populations migrate to coasts and lowland heaths for winter
Winter diet shifts from upland passerines to coastal species
Disturbance at winter roost sites causes energy expenditure
Young merlins have higher first-winter mortality than adults
Illegal persecution affects some merlins throughout their range

Welfare Considerations

Merlins disturbed from winter roosts on coastal heathland waste energy critical in cold conditions. Illegal persecution affects some individuals. Undisturbed access to food-rich habitats is essential for winter welfare.

What You Can Do

Maintain distances from merlin roost and hunting areas in winter
Report any suspected merlin persecution to the police
Support heathland conservation providing merlin winter hunting habitat