First historical record of Spoonbill in the county was in 1843 at Hayle (11) flew over on 11 October and alighted at Gwithian where seven were killed with one shot! There were then 19 birds at Newquay of which four were shot. There were reportedly ’many seen between Penzance and Marazion and many subsequently killed at Perranporth’. 
Since then there have been over 200 records of Spoonbill (not shot!) in the County. They are now recorded annually, occasionally in quite large flocks. October is statistically the best month to see them.

The well-travelled Spoonbill (2w) at Hayle Estuary October 2007. Read this birds life history HERE. (Photos:P.Freestone,M.Halliday and JH.Johns)