Unprecedented Storm Unveils ‘Uber-Rare’ Species, Leaving Birders Amazed

The excitement in England reaches its peak when the soccer team wins the Premier League. However, bird-watchers recently experienced a similar level of excitement when 16 North American bird species made an unexpected arrival on British and Irish shores. These birds were blown across the Atlantic with the remnants of Hurricane Lee. What makes this event even more special is that some of these bird species had never been seen before in the UK. For instance, in Pembrokeshire, the Canada warbler was spotted for the first time, and the bay-breasted warbler made its second appearance. Meanwhile, in Ireland, the Blackburnian warbler was spotted for the first time. Bird-watchers also observed a northern parula, 10 cliff swallows, and three Baltimore orioles. This incredible occurrence has been described as “one of the most memorable couple of days in British and Irish birding history” by the birding website Rare Bird Alert, according to the Guardian.(source)

Some bird-watchers shared their awe and astonishment at this once-in-a-lifetime event. Toby Phelps, who was the first to spot the Canada and magnolia warblers, described it as “by far the most incredible experiences I have ever had birding”. Sophie Barrell, an ecologist and birder, compared the feeling to winning the Premier League in soccer. However, amidst the excitement, there is also a bittersweet realization. These birds were on their usual migration routes when storms forced them east, carrying them out over the Atlantic. Most birds likely drowned, making the 55 individual North American birds that reached Britain and Ireland the lucky survivors. The New York Times reports that tens of thousands of birds were likely carried away by the storm.(source)

Dr. Alexander Lees, chair of the British Ornithologists’ Union Records Committee, explained that the early storm resulted in a different selection of birds reaching the UK and Ireland. This unexpected event has been a boon for bird-watchers who traveled across the UK for a chance to see these rare birds. However, their stay is expected to be brief, as they will soon resume their migration after resting and refueling. While the strongest among them may make it back to North America, it is unlikely that these small songbirds will ever be able to return to their intended destinations. This event highlights the incredible journey and challenges that migratory birds face. (Read more birds stories.)