Whats a Merlin doing here?

Hi HawkBuzzard, Merlin are the smallest member of the falcon family much the same size as a blackbird! They are migratory in their movements, breeding in traditional upland areas of Europe.  The majority then move south during the winter months. In Britain however, they often move into SE lowlands and occupy areas near to the coast. The Maldon area is surrounded by managed countryside which im sure will support enough food for the bird to thrive on through these the most difficult months. From ringing records its difficult to establish whether these coastal birds are our upland breeders or migrants from elsewhere. Return passage begins in late Feb in the south and most breeding birds are back in thier areas by late April.