What distinguishes a male Merlin in terms of weight?

A male Merlin is distinguished by being one of the lightest raptors, typically weighing around 5.5 to 9.5 ounces (approximately 156 to 270 grams). This lightweight characteristic is significant in understanding their ecological role and adaptability to prey and habitat. Merlins are built for speed and agility, which is enhanced by their small size and less weight.

Other characteristics, such as wing shape and hunting style, align with this lightweight feature, allowing males to pursue smaller birds and other agile prey effectively. In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the characteristics of a male Merlin; for example, they do not have a notably large wingspan nor do they weigh more than female peregrines, which are actually larger and heavier. Additionally, the statement about weighing less than 6 oz is a common misconception, as while they can weigh close to that range, many males exceed it. Understanding the weight of male Merlins is crucial for falconers and bird enthusiasts to appreciate their unique role in the raptor family.