MERLIN (Falco columbarius)
Size: 9.4"-11.8" | Wingspan: 20.9"-26.8" | Can Be Seen: During migration
Fun Fact: Merlin pairs have been seen teaming up to hunt large flocks of waxwings: one Merlin flushes the flock by attacking from below; the other comes in moments later to take advantage of the confusion. (Source: The Cornell Lab of Orinthology - www.allaboutbirds.org)
Photo Credit: Ryan Merrill | Macaulay Library
TRAIL HISTORY AND INFORMATION: PiPo is short for Pickering Ponds. Here the "ponds" and the surrounding trails are free and open to the public, feature 2+ miles of flat and wide hiking trails, and are idea for bird watching. In fact, more than 230 different species have been seen in this area. Avid bird-watcher CharleeBee assisted to identify and name just a variety of the many birds who reside in this area and who may show themselves to you during your visit. So bring your cameras and binoculars!
The ponds are property of the City of Rochester and were part of the Sewage Department's wastewater treatement plant originally installed in the 1950's. The lower lagoons in the area of the walking trails have been dormant for the past 50 years. In the 90's, the walking trails were created by the wastewater plant staff and are mowed weekly by the Public Workds Department. There is no hunting in this area and leashed dogs are welcomed. Here and there you will find a few benches where you can rest and hear the calls of the birds.
The only real hilly areas are where the upper lagoons transition into the lower wooded areas. There is no hunting in this area and leashed dogs are welcomed. These trails also accommodate bikes and strollers (with the caveat regarding the small but steep hills). There are also a few benches here and there should you need to rest.
You are looking for a small, camouflaged container.
Congrats to rjb43nh on being the FTF!