Endangered white-tailed eagles hatch two chicks in South Korea's Sihwa Lake

A pair of endangered white-tailed eagles has successfully raised two chicks in the Sihwa Lake area of Ansan, South Korea, marking a significant conservation success. This marks the second consecutive year of successful breeding for the species in the region, offering renewed hope for its population.

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Last year, the pair attempted to nest nearby but abandoned their eggs due to disturbances from people observing them. This year, however, they managed to hatch and fledge two chicks safely.

The eagles, typically migratory birds breeding in Siberia and northern Eurasia, have shown a rare pattern of nesting domestically. Their first successful breeding attempt in this location was in 2024. Last year, the pair attempted to nest nearby but abandoned their eggs due to disturbances from people observing them. This year, however, they managed to hatch and fledge two chicks safely.

Conservation efforts have been a collaborative endeavor. The environmental group 'Citizen Science Record Group SOOM' monitored the nesting process closely since the eggs were laid in April. Their efforts were supported by the Ansan City government and the National Institute of Ecology's Endangered Species Restoration Center. Ansan City played a crucial role by implementing measures such as controlling illegal fishing and using banners to alert the public, thereby protecting the nesting site.

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Last year, the white-tailed eagle failed to breed, so this year's breeding success was an important indicator of whether Sihwa Lake could establish itself as a new breeding ground for white-tailed eagles.

Kim Mi-ok, head of Citizen Science Record Group SOOM, stated that this year's success was a critical indicator of whether Sihwa Lake could become a stable breeding ground for white-tailed eagles. She expressed gratitude for the collective interest and efforts from various parties, including researchers and the city government, and pledged continued cooperation to ensure the eagles thrive in the region.

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This year, thanks to the active advice of researchers from the National Institute of Ecology's Endangered Species Restoration Center and the prompt response of Ansan City, precious white-tailed eagles were safely born. We will continue to cooperate so that they can live well in our region in the future.