What is a common nesting preference for Merlins?

Merlins, a small species of falcon, typically prefer nesting in abandoned crow nests. This preference is rooted in their hunting and reproductive strategies. By utilizing previously constructed nests, Merlins save energy and time that would otherwise be spent building a nest from scratch. Abandoned crow nests provide a secure and elevated environment, helping to protect their eggs and young from potential predators. This nesting strategy is advantageous, allowing Merlins to focus on hunting and raising their chicks rather than the labor-intensive process of nest construction.

In contrast, other nesting sites such as ground nests, rock crevices, or burrows in the earth are not typical for Merlins. Ground nests may expose them to predators, while rock crevices do not offer the same level of security and stability. Similarly, burrows in the earth are not a standard nesting choice for raptors like the Merlin, which prefer more open and elevated nesting locations for safety and accessibility.