Mystery surrounds arrival of newt species in West Cork

The palmate newt, a species native to Britain and other countries in western European countries, has been found living in the wild in West Cork

A male (left) and female Palmate Newt. This species has never been recorded in the wild in Ireland before — until now. Photo: NPWS

A new species of newt to Ireland has been discovered in West Cork, sparking a mystery in the herpetological world about how it got here.

The palmate newt, a species native to Britain and other countries in western European countries, has been found living in the wild at a location which is being kept secret to protect it.