The endangered black wood pigeon returns to the wild after treatment (Photo courtesy of the Jeju Wildlife Rescue Center)
JEJU Jun. 6 (Korea Bizwire) – The Jeju Wildlife Rescue Center at Jeju National University has successfully rehabilitated and released two injured black wood pigeons back into their natural habitat on the coast of Bomok-dong in the city of Seogwipo, the center announced on June 5.
The pigeons were rescued in distressed conditions last month — one on May 3 in Seogwi-dong and the other on May 18 in Gangjeong-dong, both areas of Seogwipo.
One bird had suffered a fractured sternum from an attack by a predator, while the other sustained a fractured clavicle and concussion after colliding with a building’s glass window.
Through intensive care tailored to their needs, including wound suturing, injection therapy, specialized feeding regimens and nutritional supplements, the rescue center was able to aid the pigeons’ recovery and eventually release them back into the wild.
The black wood pigeon, true to its name, has black plumage with an iridescent purple sheen around the neck area.
The endangered black wood pigeon returns to the wild after treatment (Photo courtesy of the Jeju Wildlife Rescue Center)
Measuring around 40 centimeters in length, this species is primarily found in isolated forest areas of small islands. Bamseom Island in Seogwipo is considered a key breeding ground for these pigeons on Jeju.
Their diet consists mainly of fruits from the soapberry and evergreen trees, as well as seeds, small insects and larvae. Known for their wariness and dwindling population, black wood pigeons are not easily spotted.
Designated a Natural Monument and classified as an Endangered Species Class II, the pigeons are protected under South Korean law. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed them as Near Threatened on its Red List.
“The black wood pigeon is extremely sensitive to its environment, and its survival is directly linked to habitat protection as its living space is extremely limited,” said Kim Wan-byung, a curator at the Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum.
“Given its high biological research value, investigations into the species’ habitats on Jeju’s outlying islands, along with the establishment of conservation measures, are crucial.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
