Merlins are a fairly common sight in Greater Victoria, but the fierce little falcons rarely come through the doors of the Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre in Metchosin.
The merlin – found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open forests and coastal areas with shore birds – made appearances twice at the BC SPCA rehab centre in the past two and a half weeks. That’s more than the last two years, the agency said on social media.
“Incredibly, two young merlins were brought in on separate days by different finders — from the same nest,” Wild ARC said.
“Thanks to the help of the finder who located the nest and connected with the property owners, we were able to reunite these falcons with their family with the help of the Saanich Fire Department.”
Wild ARC treated 2,043 animals last year, and 56,000 in the last decade, from across the region, returning them to the wild.
Anyone who sees wildlife they think may be in distress can call the animal helpline for advice at 1-855-622-7722.
