"Drawn to People"...351 Pigeons Gather at Seoul Station, Here’s Why

Cheongnyangni Station and Olympic Park Follow

Preference for Areas with High Human Activity... Advantageous for Habitat

A maximum of 351 feral pigeons were observed in the area around Seoul Station. There was a clear tendency for pigeons to concentrate in urban spaces with high pedestrian traffic and easy access to food.

According to a report from Yonhap News on May 24, citing the National Institute of Biological Resources’ publication "Research for Addressing Current Issues and Coexistence with Wild Birds," up to 351 feral pigeons were observed around Seoul Station as of November last year.

This survey targeted major locations in Seoul, including 36 designated feeding-prohibited zones and 9 general areas. Baseline surveys were conducted in February and November last year, and additional surveys were carried out in some key areas in March, April, May, July, and August.

Among the feeding-prohibited zones, Ichon Hangang Park recorded the highest number at 322 pigeons, followed by Gwangnaru Hangang Park with 228, and Yeouido Hangang Park with 193.

It has been confirmed that the density of feral pigeons tends to be higher in areas where human traffic and food supply continue. Pixabay

In non-designated areas, Seoul Station recorded the highest numbers. At Seoul Station, an average of 147.9 feral pigeons was counted over seven separate surveys. Cheongnyangni Station followed with a maximum of 151, and Olympic Park with a maximum of 143.

The research team explained that, like Seoul Station and Cheongnyangni Station, areas with a long history of human activity and consistent food supply tend to have higher feral pigeon densities. The report stated, "Feral pigeons exhibit high site fidelity to places where they can repeatedly obtain food," and analyzed, "Populations tend to concentrate in urban spaces with significant historical continuity."

Hangang Park was also cited as an environment favorable for pigeon habitation. The research team pointed out that the prevalence of walking, outdoor eating, and leisure activities increases the likelihood of a continuous supply of food resources.

The researchers noted that the average number of pigeons in feeding-prohibited zones was relatively lower than in non-designated areas. Although this measure may not immediately lead to a significant reduction in population, it could help to some extent in alleviating the concentration of pigeons.

According to the revised Wildlife Protection Act, local governments are now able to establish ordinances prohibiting the feeding of feral pigeons and other harmful wild animals. In July last year, the Seoul Metropolitan Government designated 38 areas as feeding-prohibited zones, and it is reported that about 30 local governments nationwide are currently enforcing similar ordinances.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.