Sanctuary of Tundra Swans on Jindo Island

Basic information

Designation

Natural Monument No.101

Category

동식물

Designated year

1962

Location

진도군, 전라남도— 전라남도 진도군 진도읍 수유리 1422

Coordinates

34.545149, 126.257213

Swans (백조), now more commonly called 'goni' (고니) in Korean, breed in Europe, Russia, Mongolia, and China, then fly to Africa, India, and Korea in winter, where they spend the period from November to February. In Korea, they overwinter along the coastal areas and return north for breeding when spring comes, following this regular seasonal pattern. The Sanctuary of Tundra Swans on Jindo Island is located in the southwestern part of the Korean peninsula. Jindo is well-suited to serve as a resting point for flocks of swans migrating via the southwestern sea. This area is relatively protected from environmental pollution due to its distance from large cities; however, recent land reclamation and tidal flat development have reduced the birds' food sources, causing swans to scatter and overwinter along nearby coastlines. Years when many swans arrive are said to be good harvest years; while swans readily approach people for food in Europe and Japan, they remain wary of humans in Korea and are difficult to approach closely. The Sanctuary of Tundra Swans on Jindo Island is the only area in the southwestern sea of Korea where swans can overwinter, and has therefore been designated and protected as a Natural Monument to preserve this environment.

Location