A west Co. Cork family are celebrating a remarkable moment on their sheep farm this lambing season after one of their ewes delivered a rare set of quintuplet lambs.

The Whooley family, who farm near Bantry, welcomed the five healthy lambs last night, with all surviving and thriving so far.

Linda Whooley told Agriland: "We were watching the cameras and my husband Tony noticed there was one out, so he ran over and helped the ewe with the rest."

The quintuplets were no surprise to the family, as all ewes had been scanned prior to this lambing season.

Despite such a large birth, the lambs were born naturally and are all in strong condition.

"Normally one might be weak or you might lose one, but they are equally good-sized," Linda said.

While the ewe is currently feeding all five lambs, Linda outlined that this will likely change in the coming days to give the ewe some relief and ensure the lambs thrive.

Linda and Tony, who farm alongside Tony's parents Anthony and Angela, have reached the halfway mark this lambing season since their first ewe gave birth at the end of February.

"Some days are good, but it's not all sunshine and buttercups," Linda acknowledged.

However, the five lambs are an impressive landmark for the Whooley family as it is the first time the farm has had quintuplets.

"We have never had quintuplets before; I googled it this morning and it said it was like a one-in-a-million chance," Linda said

The rare arrival has also brought excitement for Linda and Tony's children, who have been busy helping their grandparents this lambing season.

Linda added: "The kids love the farm and they just love hanging out with their grandparents; they are really getting stuck in this year too.

"I just think it's lovely to see the three generations [of farmers]."