More exotic birds are winging their way to Ireland

A male great spotted woodpecker pictured (not in Mayo) by Dick Coombes.

As temperatures in Ireland continue to rise, the country is expected to see a lot more exotic birds establishing breeding colonies and permanent residence here, according to one wildlife expert who says this pattern has already begun.

And it looks likely that Co Cork will be one of the first points of arrival for such birds, together with other species which will become their food.