Differences in bird abundance in relation to proximity of Merlin nests

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Abstract
Point counts made at different distances from Merlin (Falco columbarius) nests revealed that there were fewer birds near the nests than further away. All species showed this trend, regardless of the likelihood of predation by the Merlins. We propose that this is primarily an avoidance reaction of birds towards nesting Merlins to avoid predation and (or) potential injuries. Point counts made after the Merlins left their nests showed that the number of birds was independent of the distance from the nests.