The migratory bird sanctuary in Seoul was designated in 2006, encompassing the lower sections of Jungnangcheon and Cheonggyecheon under Article 17 of the Seoul Wildlife Protection and Management Ordinance. In 2007, Anyangcheon was added as a sanctuary. Initially, the sanctuary faced challenges due to the absence of clear legal regulations on restricted activities, and management responsibilities were divided among various institutions, making systematic oversight difficult. Despite these issues, the sanctuary has evolved into a vital habitat for migratory and seasonal birds, attracting numerous species year-round and serving as a popular space for urban residents.
Each winter, the sanctuary supports between 43 to 68 species, with annual counts exceeding 5,000 individuals. Species composition and population numbers fluctuate based on various factors, including environmental conditions, nearby construction, and human disturbance. Since 2017, total population numbers have stabilized, and species diversity has been increasing since 2020.
Surveys conducted between 2023 and 2024 in Jungnangcheon, Cheonggyecheon, and Anyangcheon reveal high species diversity and stable or increasing population numbers. Dominant species include the Eurasian coot (30.89%) and Mandarin duck (13.84%) in Jungnangcheon, while the sparrow (24.4%) and rock pigeon (19.1%) are prevalent in Cheonggyecheon. Anyangcheon features notable species such as the long-tailed tit (16.8%) and spot-billed duck (12.9%), along with legally protected species like the Mandarin duck and various geese. Urban disturbances, including construction and increased recreational spaces, continue to threaten the sanctuary ecosystem. Projects aimed at enhancing citizen amenities often impact wildlife habitats by reducing green space, altering plant ecosystems, and introducing noise and physical disruptions. These changes particularly affect buffer zones that help birds maintain safe distances from human activities.
Efforts to enhance the habitat include expanding wetland, mudflat, and island areas within the sanctuary. By fostering diverse aquatic and terrestrial environments, these areas can provide essential spaces for feeding, resting, and breeding, especially in central urban locations where disturbances are common. Vegetation should feature multi-layered structures with trees, shrubs, and grasses to offer cover, promote a balanced ecosystem, and provide seasonal food sources for birds.
To ensure effective conservation, buffer zones should be established to limit construction and human activity near the sanctuary. Maintaining essential distances of over 50 meters from bird habitats would enable birds to nest and thrive undisturbed. Regular monitoring, habitat restoration, predator control, and the removal of invasive plants are also crucial for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Public awareness and community involvement in conservation efforts are vital. Engaging local residents through birdwatching and educational programs can enhance ecological understanding and support the sanctuary’s goals. Coordinating management efforts across agencies and establishing clear regulatory guidelines will further strengthen the sanctuary’s capacity to sustainably support urban wildlife.