the intended victim. On the high moorlands, however, 

 I believe that young Meadow-Pipits form the principal 

 diet of the Merlin during the summer months. Many 

 gamekeepers consider our bird as very destructive 

 amongst young Grouse ; but although I am well aware 

 that the Merlin will take its prey on the ground more 

 readily perhaps than any European Falcon except the 

 Kestrel, I do not think that any serious amount of harm 

 can be caused by it amongst game-birds, as, whilst they 

 are small enough to be liable to attack from the Merlin, 

 they are jealously tended and protected by their parents. 

 In captivity the Merlin is remarkably docile, but re- 

 quires great care and skilful management to keep it for 

 any length of time in good flying condition. 



