Merlin Falcon Juvenile

 

On a cold and overcast day, I embarked on a hike along the Guemes Mountain Trail. A light layer of fresh snow had fallen the previous night, leaving the trail icy in some spots as I ascended the picturesque snow-covered path. The forest was tranquil, with only the occasional chirping of birds breaking the otherwise serene silence. I did not expect to encounter much during this early afternoon excursion.

Upon reaching the summit, I commenced my "wait for it", anticipating the arrival of something photographic worthy. Frequently, during my excursions, I am visited by various creatures. Once again, I was not disappointed as a juvenile Merlin Falcon gracefully glided in and perched at an ideal spot. The sun was peeking out through the clouds, and the Merlin began to preen. This was the first time I had seen a Merlin at the summit of Guemes Mountain.

Merlin falcons, like other birds, engage in preening to maintain their feathers in optimal condition. Preening helps them:

• Remove Parasites: By preening, merlin's can remove parasites such as lice, mites, and ticks that might be lurking in their feathers.
  
  
• Align Feathers: Preening helps to realign feathers, which is crucial for flight efficiency and insulation.
  
  
• Oil Distribution: They have a gland near the base of their tail that secretes oil. By preening, they distribute this oil across their feathers, making them water-resistant and flexible.

In essence, preening is a vital part of their daily grooming routine to ensure their feathers are clean, well-aligned, and in top-notch condition for survival.

Guemes Mountain Trail
Guemes Island, WA

Skagit Land Trust