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When this patient first arrived at the Center, no one was quite sure what we were dealing with. Between the guesses of biologists, veterinarians, falconers, rehabbers, and our own seasoned staff, we heard everything from American Kestrel to Peregrine Falcon—and then, the most surprising suggestion of all: a Merlin.Why so surprising? Because Merlins aren’t known to breed anywhere near here. Their typical nesting range is far to the north, in Canada. Yet, as we’ve learned time and again, nature doesn’t always follow the rulebook. Once this bird’s primary feathers began to grow in, it became unmistakable—we really did have a Merlin in our care. Even more incredible, this was only the second documented case of Merlins nesting in Virginia!
While we occasionally admit adult Merlins passing through, having a fledgling in our hospital was truly extraordinary. Even better, the first known nesting site remains active, with the parent pair faithfully returning each year. With this new case, there’s reason to hope that Merlins may one day begin calling our region home.
Please come and watch us send this mystical Merlin into the skies for the very first time! Join us this coming Thursday, September 11th at Smith Park at 4:30 p.m. to watch this amazing release!
If you like conservation success stories like this, then please consider coming to the gala on September 27th at Hotel Roanoke or participating in our upcoming online auction. All proceeds go directly toward supporting our mission of giving amazing wildlife like this a second chance!
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Smith Park, 1618 Wiley Dr SW,Roanoke, Virginia, United States
