Study on the Grading Method of Baekdudaegan in South Korea by the Avifauna

AbstractThis study surveyed the avifauna in five areas of Baekdudaegan in South Korea, except for national parks or nature reserves, from 2007 to 2011. The results were as follows. The observed number of birds was 5,827 individuals of 92 species in total (Sum of maximum number of observation). II area (Dakmokryeong∼Gitdaegibong) had the most number of species (71 species) and individuals (1,831 individuals). On the other han, V area (Yuksimnyeong∼Yeowonjae) had the least number of species (40 species) and individuals (446 individuals). The major dominant birds were Fringilla montifringilla, Aegithalos caudatus, Emberiza elegans, Microscelis amaurotis, and Garrulus glandarius. The birds which wintered during the winter season and formed a colony were the major dominant birds. The species diversity was relatively high (3.60 in total). In particular, IV area (Hyeongjebong∼Satgatbong) was the highest (3.45) but V area was the lowest (2.93). The total of 11 species of the legally protected birds indicated by Cultural Heritage Administration or Ministry of Environment were observed, including Aix galericulata. Additionally, the natural monuments (8 species) and the second grade endangered birds (7 species) were observed. As a result of regional grading for each item, IV area (Hyeongjebong∼Satgatbong) was the highest with the score of 23. On the other hand, V area (Yuksimnyeong∼Yeowonjae) was the lowest with the score of 9. Since the result of the grading in this study was based on the Baekdudaegan areas excluding national parks or nature reserves, it is somewhat limited to make a comparison with the whole forest areas or nature reserves. For more reasonable grading for the future, it is suggested to conduct specific research which surveys the relatively large forests within the Baekdudaegan, such as national parks or nature reserves