Rare whale spotted off Irish coast for first time in 114 years

A very rare whale has been spotted swimming off the coast of Ireland.

North Atlantic right whales are one of the world's most endangered whale species. It's thought there are fewer than 350 left in the wild.

According to the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), one has been spotted swimming near Sliabh Liag, County Donegal.

IWDG said it was an "exceptionally rare record" and the last time this type of whale was seen around Ireland was in 1910.

What is the North Atlantic right whale?

The North Atlantic right whale is usually found off the coast of North America.

They are like tanks in the water - heavy, wide and dense - as well as being curious, acrobatic animals who can be seen breaching the water and smacking it with their fluke, or tail.

North Atlantic rights have been listed as an endangered species since 1970 and humans have had a big impact on their numbers in the wild for centuries.

Most recently, heavily industrialised oceans and fishing practices are putting the ocean mammal in danger.

It's thought the magnificent creature could be extinct within the next 20 years.

'Please give it space'

The whale has been observed near Killybegs in County Donegal

The IWDG is asking people not to seek out the whale and to only observe it from the shore.

They said:

“There is an enormous onus on us all to ensure this whale remains as long as it needs in Donegal bay, where it’s most likely feeding on tiny copepods (tiny crustaceans) without having to run the gauntlet of small craft and sightseers,” the group said.

“As with all whales, they have full protection under Irish law… this is our chance to help a population of whales on the very brink.

“Please give it space.”