JECHEON, March 19 (Korea Bizwire) — Woraksan, a mountain in South Korea’s Sobaek mountain range, has become a sanctuary for the endangered Korean mountain goat (Naemorhedus caudatus), with the protected species showing remarkable population growth in recent years.
According to Woraksan National Park officials on March 18, a comprehensive wildlife survey conducted between April and November last year documented at least 183 mountain goats living in the park. The count represents a dramatic 79.4% increase from the 102 individuals recorded in 2019.
The survey, which deployed 106 motion-sensor cameras throughout suspected habitation areas, captured over 4,700 photographs. After eliminating duplicate images, researchers analyzed 835 unique photos, identifying individual goats through distinctive features such as horn shape, facial coloring, and markings.
The current population significantly exceeds the minimum viable population of 100 individuals that scientists consider necessary for self-sustaining survival in a specific habitat.
“While our more comprehensive camera placement contributed to higher detection rates, the population growth primarily reflects successful breeding in favorable habitat conditions,” said Son Jang-ik, director of the Northern Conservation Center at the Wildlife Conservation Institute.
Woraksan, known for its abundant vegetation and rocky terrain, provides ideal conditions for the species. The mountain has historical significance as a natural habitat, with goat sightings recorded until the early 1980s. Conservation efforts began in 1994 when six captive-bred mountain goats were released into the wild, followed by additional releases in 1997 and 1998.
The modern restoration project gained momentum after a 2006 government survey confirmed approximately 10 goats living near Woraksan’s peak. Between 2007 and 2014, the Wildlife Conservation Institute released 22 additional mountain goats in four phases. To prevent inbreeding, the program introduced individuals from other populations, including those from Seoraksan, Yanggu, and Hwacheon.
With the Woraksan restoration now deemed successful, conservation efforts are expanding. “We’re planning to release four to six mountain goats from Seoraksan and our breeding program at Sobaeksan and Songnisan during the first half of this year,” Son explained. “This is part of our broader strategy to establish a sustainable mountain goat corridor along the Baekdudaegan mountain range.”
The Korean mountain goat is designated as a Natural Monument and classified as a Grade 1 endangered species by South Korea’s Ministry of Environment.
Image credit: The Wildlife Conservation Institute / photonews@koreabizwire.com
