Magician's bird
I believe this is a double definition.
'magician's' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)
'bird' is the second definition.
(merlin is a kind of bird)
(Other definitions for merlin that I've seen before include "small aggressive bird of prey" , "Bird of prey - magician" , "Wizard; bird of prey" , "Small falcon; Arthur's friend" , "Magician of the Round Table" .)
'magician's bird' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for dove that I've seen before include "So-called pacifist" , "Bird; advocate of peace" , "Small pigeon" , "Symbol of peace" , "Pigeon-like bird" .)