A bird rarely seen in Bermuda has been delighting birdwatchers and members of the public with its impressive wingspan stretching more than six feet, and its large bill.

According to Andrew Dobson, president of the Bermuda Audubon Society, there have been less than 20 sightings in the last 40 years in Bermuda of brown pelicans.

"So when one bird arrived over the Easter weekend, it caused quite a lot of excitement from both local birdwatchers and residents who have been lucky enough to see this huge seabird.

"The wingspan of well over six feet, a unique bill with distensible pouch and its ability to plunge-dive bill first from height, make it a distinctive species.

"It has been spotted at various locations around Bermuda but appears to be favouring the coast around Daniel's Head."

Mr. Dobson said brown pelicans were endangered at one time due to pesticides, but since DDT has been banned, they have made a good comeback along the US southeast coast.