Which of the following is a characteristic of the merlin?

The characteristic that distinguishes the merlin is its remarkable speed during flight. Merlins are small falcons that are highly acrobatic and swift fliers, enabling them to make quick and agile maneuvers while hunting or evading predators. This speed is a crucial adaptation for catching prey, as it allows them to chase down small birds and rodents effectively.

The other characteristics mentioned do not accurately reflect the behavior or physical attributes of the merlin. For instance, while some birds of prey may have long tails for stability in the air, merlins actually have relatively short tails compared to other raptors. Additionally, merlins typically nest on ledges or in dense vegetation rather than in tree cavities. They also hunt primarily in the air, often engaging in aerial pursuits, rather than primarily on the ground. Understanding these aspects helps to appreciate the hunting strategies and physical adaptations that make the merlin a unique and efficient predator in its environment.