Spatiotemporal variations and distribution patterns in waterbirds along Seocheon Tidal Flat: Focused on endangered wildlife species

The Seocheon Tidal Flat, located in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, is a critical habitat for waterbirds in Korea. Previous studies, however, have been limited in geographic scope, preventing a comprehensive understanding of spatiotemporal variations and distribution patterns of waterbirds. This study aimed to analyze spatiotemporal variation and distribution patterns of endangered waterbird species to provide a foundation for effective conservation strategies. The Seocheon Tidal Flat was divided into a 1 × 1 km grid, and field surveys were conducted twice monthly from January to December 2023. To Investigate the spatiotemporal variations and distribution patterns of endangered waterbird species in the Seocheon Tidal Flat, species with at least 15 recorded coordinate points and not restricted to specific areas were selected for analysis. Seven species were included in the analysis: the Black-faced Spoonbill ( Platalea minor ), Chinese Egret ( Egretta eulophotes ), Saunders’s Gull ( Saundersilarus saundersi ), Eurasian Oystercatcher ( Haematopus ostralegus ), Bar-tailed Godwit ( Limosa lapponica ), Great Knot ( Calidris tenuirostris ), and Far Eastern Curlew ( Numenius madagascariensis ). The results revealed distinct spatial and temporal distribution patterns, which were influenced by each species’ ecological characteristics. These findings highlight the need for targeted conservation strategies that reflect species-specific distribution patterns and seasonal habitat use.