Beginning in 2023, the public will gain access to information regarding the habitat and density of the native ‘Korean hare,’ a species that has been excluded from previous wildlife studies. The National Institute of Biological Resources announced its plans to include the Korean hare in their survey of wild animals, shedding light on a species that has been largely unknown for the past 18 years. Despite being an endemic species of the Korean Peninsula, the Korean hare was removed from the list of hunting animals in 2005, leaving much to be discovered about its distribution and population. As an important indicator animal for environmental changes, the inclusion of the Korean hare in the study marks a significant step towards understanding and protecting this unique species.
Overview of Korean Hares
Introduction
Korean hares are native species of the Korean Peninsula that are set to be included in the wildlife study starting in 2023. This decision was made by the National Institute of Biological Resources, under the Ministry of Environment, in order to gather information about the habitat and density of these hares. Previously excluded from the list of hunting animals designated by the Wildlife Protection and Management Act, Korean hares have remained relatively unknown for the past 18 years. This article aims to provide an overview of these fascinating creatures, their characteristics, challenges in observing them, and the importance of including them in wildlife research.
Habitat and Density Information
Due to their exclusion from the Wildlife Protection and Management Act, not much has been known about the habitat and density of Korean hares. However, starting in 2023, this information will be open to the public. Korean hares are endemic to the Korean Peninsula and belong to the Lagomorpha and Leporidae families. They prefer to live in open grasses rather than in the mountains, contrary to their name. It is believed that their habitat has shrunk over time, particularly due to afforestation projects that have resulted in denser forests but a decrease in bushes and silver grass forests.
Exclusion from Wildlife Protection and Management Act
In 2005, Korean hares were excluded from the list of hunting animals designated by the Wildlife Protection and Management Act. This exclusion has led to a lack of information about these hares, including their habitat density and distribution. However, this year, the National Institute of Biological Resources announced that Korean hares will be included in the annual survey of wild animals conducted by the institute. This decision marks a significant step towards understanding and protecting these native species.
Inclusion in Wildlife Study
Announcement by National Institute of Biological Resources
The National Institute of Biological Resources, under the Ministry of Environment, made an announcement confirming the inclusion of Korean hares in the wildlife study. Starting in 2023, data on the habitat and density of these hares will be collected and made available to the public. This inclusion is a significant development in the effort to understand and protect these native species.
Annual Survey of Wild Animals
The annual survey of wild animals conducted by the National Institute of Biological Resources covers more than 20 species, including both hunting animals and indicator animals. This survey provides valuable data on the population and distribution of various wildlife species. The inclusion of Korean hares in this survey will contribute to a better understanding of their population trends and habitat needs.
Lack of Information on Korean Hares
Since their exclusion from the hunting animals list in 2005, there has been a lack of information about Korean hares. Despite being endemic to the Korean Peninsula, their habitat density and distribution have remained largely unknown. The inclusion of Korean hares in the wildlife study will help fill this knowledge gap and provide important insights into the ecology and conservation needs of these native species.
Description and Characteristics of Korean Hares
Taxonomy and Classification
Korean hares, scientifically known as Lepus Coreana, belong to the Lagomorpha and Leporidae families. Within the rabbit tree, which comprises 92 species of rabbits across two families and 12 genera, Korean hares stand out due to their distinctive features. They are known for their wide nose and a white and small spot on their forehead. In Korean, they are called “met rabbit,” with “met” being a dialect term for “moe,” meaning mountain. This name reflects their preference for mountainous habitats.
Distinctive Features
Korean hares possess several distinctive features that set them apart from other rabbits. Their wide nose and small white spot on the forehead make them easily recognizable. They are small to medium-sized mammals, with a length ranging from 40 to 50 centimeters and a weight of around 2 kilograms. These hares are known for their agility and sensitivity, traits that help them evade predators and navigate their habitat with ease.
Familiarity in Korean Culture
Korean hares hold cultural significance in Korea and are deeply familiar to the Korean people. They are often referred to as “mountain rabbits” and are the subject of a popular children’s song called “Mountain Rabbit.” This cultural familiarity underscores the importance of preserving and understanding these native species.
Challenges in Observing Korean Hares
Sensitivity and Agility
One of the challenges in observing Korean hares is their sensitivity and agility. These hares have evolved to be highly alert and responsive to their surroundings due to the presence of predators such as cats and wild cats. Their ability to run at speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour allows them to escape from potential threats. This agility and sensitivity make it difficult to study and observe them closely.
Predators and Defense Mechanisms
Korean hares face a range of predators in their natural habitat. Cats and wild cats are known to be major threats to their survival. To protect themselves from predators, these hares have developed defense mechanisms, including their speed and agility. Additionally, their coloration and camouflage enable them to blend into their surroundings, making them less visible to predators.
Speed and Habitat
The speed of Korean hares is a key factor in their survival. Their ability to run at high speeds helps them evade predators and navigate their habitat effectively. However, the shrinking habitat of Korean hares poses a challenge to their survival. Afforestation projects in Korea have resulted in denser forests, but a decrease in bushes and silver grass forests that Korean hares prefer. As their preferred habitat decreases, their population density may be affected.
Shrinking Habitat and Declining Population
Preference for Open Grasses
Contrary to their name, Korean hares prefer to live in open grasses rather than in the mountains. It is believed that their habitat has shrunk over time due to afforestation projects, which have led to denser forests but a decrease in their preferred habitat. As their habitat shrinks, their population density may be negatively impacted.
Impact of Afforestation Projects
Afforestation projects in Korea have had unintended consequences for the habitat of Korean hares. These projects have resulted in denser forests, but a decrease in the availability of open grasses and other vegetation that these hares rely on. As their habitat undergoes changes, it is important to monitor and understand the impact on their population.
Trends in Population Density
The survey on the habitat status of Korean hares has revealed trends in their population density. The number of hares per 100 hectares increased from 11.5 in 1999 to 12.3 in 2001 but started declining to 8 in 2004. This decline suggests a potential decrease in the overall population of Korean hares. Understanding and monitoring these population trends are crucial for effective conservation efforts.
Importance as an Environmental Indicator
Role as Prey for Predators
Korean hares play an important role as prey for other predators. They are representative herbivores and serve as a vital source of food for carnivorous species. Monitoring the population and condition of Korean hares can provide insights into the health and dynamics of predator-prey relationships within ecosystems.
Susceptibility to Environmental Changes
Korean hares are highly vulnerable to environmental changes. Their population reacts sensitively to alterations in their habitat and other ecological factors. By including Korean hares in wildlife research, scientists can gauge the impact of environmental changes on these hares and gain a better understanding of overall ecosystem health.
Inclusion in Wildlife Research
The decision to include Korean hares in the wildlife research conducted by the National Institute of Biological Resources is a significant step towards conserving these native species. By studying their habitat, population trends, and responses to environmental changes, researchers can gather valuable data that will inform conservation strategies and ensure the long-term survival of Korean hares.
In conclusion, Korean hares are fascinating native species of the Korean Peninsula that have been relatively understudied due to their exclusion from the Wildlife Protection and Management Act. However, with their inclusion in the wildlife study starting in 2023, more information will become available about their habitat, population density, and unique characteristics. By understanding the challenges they face and their importance as environmental indicators, efforts can be made to protect these hares and preserve their natural habitat for future generations.
