Birdwatchers in Cork have reported the first sightings of a Western Bonelli’s Warbler in Ireland in more than two years.

The rare migratory species was observed over the past week at two locations along the Cork coastline, Mizen Head and the Old Head of Kinsale, according to IrishBirding.com.

The Western Bonelli’s Warbler is a small insect-eating bird that breeds in southern Europe and is rarely seen in Ireland. It typically appears during autumn migration and is considered a scarce visitor. The last confirmed sighting in Ireland was in 2023.

At Mizen Head, the bird was seen near the lighthouse car park, where it was reported to be active and vocal until late evening. Observers were advised to remain on public paths and avoid entering private property. A second sighting was recorded at the Old Head of Kinsale, another well-known birding hotspot.

The arrival of the warbler may be linked to recent weather conditions that favour long-distance migration.

The Western Bonelli’s Warbler is distinguishable from its eastern counterpart by subtle differences in plumage and song. It was one of the first bird species to be split into two distinct forms based on genetic research.

Yesterday, WeathÉire reported the arrival of a Northern Parula in Ireland for the first time, with multiple sightings reported on the Beara Peninsula in West Cork over the past week.

The small North American warbler is not native to Ireland and is believed to have arrived due to recent Atlantic storms that likely disrupted its migratory route across the ocean.

The first ever reported sightings of the bird species were made to Irishbirding.com during the past week.