With around 80 in number, the group of large yellow-billed snowy-white birds stood out on the the island in the wildlife refuge.
Except during spring and fall migrations, American White Pelicans are not typically seen at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge near Bono, Ohio on the southern shore of Lake Erie.
It was a treat to see so many in one place!
We watched the majestic birds for a few moments as they preened their feathers, commenting about their black-tipped wings and broad wingspan.
When another vehicle stopped and passengers came out to peer at the birds, we invited them to look through our spotting scope.
“Oh no, we don’t want to intrude,” they replied.
“We have our camera and I can see them easily without binoculars.”
I responded, “You’ll get a closeup view in our scope.”
They joined us and took turns looking through the scope.
“They are magnificent-looking birds,” commented one of the other birders. “My first time seeing them! Thank you for sharing your scope with us.”
I smiled.
There’s nothing better than hearing the joy in another birder’s voice as they tell you they’re seeing a bird for the first time.
