What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to investigate the migratory connectivity of Eastern Rooks in Korea and its implications for human-wildlife conflict management.

May 15, 2026Open Access

Weak migratory connectivity undermines human–wildlife conflict management of urban-adapted Eastern Rooks (Corvus frugilegus pastinator) wintering in Korea

Key Points

This research aims to investigate the migratory connectivity of Eastern Rooks in Korea and its implications for human-wildlife conflict management.
Examined 66 carcasses from four wintering sites in Korea.
Used mitochondrial DNA and feather δ²H analyses to study migratory patterns and origins.
Analyzed variations in δ²H values across age groups to assess differences in molt timing and location.
No significant differences in δ²H values among wintering sites, indicating broad overlap in breeding origins.
High intermixing observed among wintering populations with no distinct structure, suggesting a diffuse population.
Localized lethal control is unlikely to be effective, advocating for habitat modification and deterrence measures.

Abstract

H) and mitochondrial DNA analyses, we examined 66 carcasses from four wintering sites in Korea. Feather δ²H values did not differ significantly among wintering sites, and isoscape-based assignment revealed broadly overlapping breeding origins around the Mongolia-Russia and China-Russia border regions. No clear latitudinal trend in breeding origins was detected, suggesting the absence of chain migration. Adults consistently had higher δ²H values than first-winter individuals, likely reflecting age-related differences in molt timing and location. Genetic analyses revealed high intermixing among wintering populations, with no evidence of distinct population structure. Together, these findings suggest that Korean wintering rooks constitute a diffuse population, implying that localized lethal control is unlikely to be effective. Non-lethal strategies, including habitat modification, alternative roosting sites, and deterrence measures, should be prioritized to mitigate conflicts.

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