Recently I had my first ever birding adventure in and around Fenwick Island, Delaware. A rare sighting of a roseate spoonbill was made, and Melanie, Jeff Gordon, and myself headed out to where the bird was last seen in hopes of catching our own glimpse.

Originally, we were going to be taken by Jeff through some sights that he has mapped out on a birding trail he developed for Delaware (http://www.delawarebirdingtrail.org/), but with the discovery of the Spoonbill, we decided to join in on the fun and chase it.

As we peered through our binoculars and spotting scopes in the parking lot, Jeff explained to us that this bird has never paid this state a visit before now and only once before has it been seen in Maryland. Typically the roseate spoonbill stays in South America, Caribbean, and the U.S. Gulf Coast, however now it can be added to the Delaware list.

On this particular day, our Spoonbill was playing hard-to-get. Only Great Egrets and Canadian Geese seemed to be occupying the marshes, but we eagerly looked out with our hopes held high.

After sometime with no real sign, we decided to move on to another spot nearby that had also recorded a sighting or two. The hunt was on! We moved to this new location, did a little creative parking in the neighborhood over looking some more marsh, and pulled out the binoculars. Again, the spoonbill remained unseen, as if he suddenly had a case of stage fright.

So off we were again, scoping out marshes behind the local pharmacy and next to the tackle shop, but still no sign. All was thought to be lost for the day and arrangements were being made for drinks at Catch 54 to sooth our sorrows, when a phone call came through... The Roseate Spoonbill had been spotted!

So once again, we filled up the car and headed over to where we started, right outside Catch 54. When we reached, other birders had gathered at this spot as well to see something so rare in these parts.

With my binoculars on loan from Jeff, I stared out over the tall grass and marsh, but wasn't seeing much. Every so often fellow birder would advise me in a direction where the birds head was popping up, or its back was visible, but I wasn't able to confirm anything.

Then it happened! Our voyage to Fenwick Island, Delaware was validated. The large pink bird took off from where it was roosting and for a few seconds, I was able to catch a full view of the famous creature. Our mission was accomplished; success.

Photo by: Jeffery A. Gordon, jeffreyagordon.com

After a few more minutes of watching and hoping for another glorious appearance, we decided to step into nearby Catch 54 to pay our respects to the restaurant that had gained a temporary mascot and have a celebratory drink.

The day was complete; our treasure was found. And most of all, I can't wait to buy my very own pair of birding binoculars. Thanks to Jeff Gordon, I think I have found yet another interesting hobby to take on.