First Avifaunal Inventory of Sorok Island, South Korea

Sorok Island, located off the southern coast of South Korea, has historically remained isolated due to its role as a quarantine site for patients with Hansen’s disease. Consequently, its ecological characteristics have largely gone undocumented. This study presents the first comprehensive avifaunal survey of the island, conducted over three seasons (spring, summer, and autumn) in 2024. A total of 1,267 individuals representing 53 species across 33 families were recorded. Among these, eight species are designated as nationally protected in South Korea. Based on our findings, I recommend implementing conservation measures such as the planting of fruit-bearing native trees to enhance habitat heterogeneity.