First record of Greenish warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides in Menorca

A Greenish warbler was recorded for the first time in Menorca, and in the Balearic islands, during this autumn. This occurred during the study of the postnupcial migration in the Isla del Aire (Menorca). For three weeks, some members of the Menorca Ornithological Society (SOM) have been studying the migratory flow in this little islet of the south coast of Menorca, using the technique of bird banding.

The Greenish Warbler is a typical leaf warbler in appearance, greyish-green above and off-white below. The single wing bar found in the southern and western populations distinguishes them from most similar species.

Their breeding range is in north-eastern Europe and temperate to subtropical continental Asia. This warbler is a strongly migratory and winters in India. It is not uncommon as a spring or early autumn vagrant in Western Europe and is annually seen in Great Britain, but very rare in Spain.

This is a fantastic record for Menorca and very important information for local ornithologist.