Species-specific Comparison of Mammal Detection Rates between Field Surveys and Camera Trapping in Forest Areas Using the Fifth National Ecosystem Survey of South Korea

This study aimed to compare the detection rates of field surveys and camera trapping using data from forest areas within 822 survey grids of the 5th National Ecosystem Survey of South Korea (2019-2023). Detection rates for 15 mammal species were analyzed. The results showed that medium- to large-sized mammals, including <i>Capreolus pygargus, Hydropotes inermis, Sus scrofa, Nyctereutes procyonoides, Martes flavigula</i>, and <i>Meles leucurus</i> had significantly higher detection rates with camera traps. In contrast, small mammals such as <i>Prionailurus bengalensis, Mustela sibirica, Erinaceus amurensis, Lepus coreanus, Apodemus agrarius, Eutamias sibiricus, Pteromys volans aluco, Sciurus vulgaris</i>, and <i>Mogera robusta</i> exhibited low detection rates with camera traps, indicating that field surveys remain essential for monitoring these species. To improve the accuracy of mammal monitoring, a hybrid monitoring system combining field surveys and camera trapping is recommended, along with improvements in camera trap deployment. This study provides a foundation for standardizing mammal survey methodologies and supports the development of biodiversity conservation strategies in South Korea.