Gochang County Selects Black-headed Plover as Bird of the Month

As Part of the World Natural Heritage Gochang Tidal Flat Conservation Campaign

Gochang County in North Jeolla Province has selected the Black-faced Spoonbill, an internationally endangered migratory bird, as the "Bird of the Month" for March.

According to the county on the 10th, as part of the World Natural Heritage Gochang Tidal Flat Conservation Campaign, a "Bird of the Month" is selected and promoted each month.

Gochang Monthly New Black-faced Spoonbill Introduction Poster. Provided by Gochang County

The Black-faced Spoonbill, chosen as the bird for March, sees about 60 individuals visiting the Gochang Tidal Flat each spring for breeding. Among the spoonbills found in Korea, it is the largest in size.

Designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2021, the Gochang Tidal Flat provides a vast feeding ground for endangered species.

The Black-faced Spoonbill is not only listed as a Near Threatened (NT) species internationally, but is also designated as a Class II Endangered Wild Animal, Natural Monument, and Marine Protected Species in Korea, requiring thorough protection.

Choi Soonpil, head of the county's World Heritage Division, stated, "The Gochang Tidal Flat, as a registered World Natural Heritage site, holds great value for biodiversity conservation and as a major habitat for endangered migratory birds. By selecting a 'Bird of the Month' each month, we plan to take the lead in promoting the significance and conservation of internationally endangered migratory birds that visit the Gochang Tidal Flat."