SEOUL, Dec. 29 (Korea Bizwire) – According to a recent report from the South Korean Ministry of Environment, the number of wild animals rescued nationwide has significantly increased over the past five years. In total, 24,080 animals were rescued by 17 wildlife rescue centers across the country this year.
Of these, 7,321 animals, accounting for 35.9% of the total, were successfully treated and rehabilitated before being returned to the wild. However, the report also highlights a concerning aspect: 7,601 animals, or 37.2%, perished, and another 406 animals are still under care at the rescue centers.
Comparing data from the past five years reveals a 43.8% increase in wildlife admissions. In 2019, 14,188 animals were admitted; in 2020, the number rose to 15,397; in 2021, it reached 17,545; in 2022, 20,161; and in 2023, 24,080. Among these, endangered species also formed a significant part, with numbers fluctuating over the years: 1,076 in 2019, 1,205 in 2020, 1,277 in 2021, 1,202 in 2022, and 1,192 in 2023.
Birds constituted the majority of the rescued animals, accounting for 15,915 cases or 78% of the total. Notable instances include birds suffering from concussions due to collisions with windows, separated from their parents, or infected with Avian Influenza (AI).
Notable instances include birds suffering from concussions due to collisions with windows, separated from their parents, or infected with Avian Influenza (AI). (Image courtesy of Chungnam Wild Animal Rescue Center)
Mammals followed with 4,268 cases (20.9%), many of which were victims of traffic accidents. The report also mentioned rescues involving reptiles (216) and amphibians (7).
The report specifically points out an increase in cases of birds poisoned by pesticides during winter. On December 18, six eagles were admitted to a rescue center in South Chungcheong Province after ingesting pesticides. Over the past five years, an alarming 2,093 wild birds have been found dead due to suspected pesticide poisoning.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
