Gochang-gun to Host 'Gochang Getbol Big Bird Race' from Next Month 3rd to 5th

Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk announced on the 29th that it will hold the "3rd Gochang Mudflat Big Bird Race" from the 3rd to the 5th of next month at Sangha Farm and the Gochang Mudflat area.

The "Gochang Mudflat Big Bird Race" is a birdwatching competition where birdwatchers from across the country observe migratory birds and take photos in Gochang-gun, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Poster for the 3rd Gochang Mudflat Big Bird Race event. [Photo by Gochang-gun]

Based on the migratory bird photos recorded by participants, it is also an opportunity to annually compare and analyze the status of bird habitats.

Although online registration began on the 1st, it received such enthusiastic support that registration was closed by the morning of the same day due to a flood of applicants, and a total of 32 teams with 124 participants have been selected.

Recognized for its importance as a major habitat for migratory birds, the Gochang Mudflat, designated as a World Natural Heritage site in July 2021, is home to endangered legally protected species such as the Saunders's Gull, of which only about 120 individuals exist worldwide, as well as the spotted redshank, great knot, and black-headed lapwing.

This year as well, the event plans to recruit a wide range of participants including families and students and provide basic birdwatching education to ensure that beginners can participate without difficulty.

Additionally, participants from outside the region will be guided to various birdwatching points within the county, including Ungok Wetland and Seonunsan Provincial Park, allowing them to fully enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of the county.

Moreover, various ecological experience booths and sand art performances will be offered to provide diverse attractions.

On the last day of the event, the "Big Bird Race Awards Ceremony" and the "3rd Anniversary Ceremony of the Gochang Mudflat World Natural Heritage Registration" will be held, providing a time to reflect on the "Outstanding Universal Value (OUV)" of the Gochang Mudflat.

Gochang = Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Kim Jaegil baekok@asiae.co.kr