I was scouting through this northeast Columbus suburb when I stumbled on a Merlin perched in a tree.  It was located near the east end of Alder Vista Drive, adjacent to the local golf course, but was no doubt attracted by the legions of sparrows and finches attracted to several feeders in the area.  That there were also lots of Robins and waxwings taking advantage of several honeysuckle patches probably just clinched the deal for the falcon.  The cold seems to have driven lots of small landbirds into urban Columbus neighborhoods, and these unusual raptors should probably be looked for over the next cold week.  This might be a very good time to check if merlins have returned to Greenlawn cemetery.

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