These 2 small feisty raptors, Merlin (Falco columbarius) (left) and Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) bear a certain resemblance. The sharpie is a juvenile and the Merlin a female or juvenile. Both are roughly the size of a Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) (10-11 inches). Merlin taken with Canon 10D/100-400IS and sharpie with Swarovski 80HD/Coolpix 995. The sharpie has a yellow eye and shorter wings. The primaries on the Merlin extend closer to the tip of the tail.