Merlin (Falco columbarius )
These nongame birds inhabit desert elevations. Transient populations peak from mid September to mid October and again in March. Nesting occurs in cavities of trees or ledges. Nest territories are utilized from 4-15 to 6-25. Active nests require a 0.5 mile radius buffer zone protected from human disturbance. Eggs are incubated for 28-32 days and young fledge in another 30-35 days. Their diet consists almost entirely of birds. Their population trend is decreasing.