Population Structure, Age Distribution, and Sex Composition of Long-Tailed Gorals in Jangsudae, Seoraksan National Park, Republic of Korea

The long-tailed goral (Naemorhedus caudatus) is an endangered species in Northeast Asia and is threatened by habitat loss, fragmentation, and human activities. This study investigated the population structure, age distribution and sex ratio of long-tailed gorals in the Jangsudae area of Seoraksan National Park, Republic of Korea using camera traps and morphological identification methods. A total of 895 photos yielded data on 29 individuals, including 23 individuals aged > 1 year and 6 offspring resulting in an age ratio of 3.8:1. The population had a female biased sex ratio (0.3:1) in individuals >1 years old and no male in adult (3-10 year) and subadult (1–3 year) age groups. The age structure showed high number of older adults (i.e.,14) indicating a mature population but limited number of young individuals suggesting survival challenges. The data on population structure and demographics of long-tailed gorals will be used as a basis for developing effective conservation and management plan for this endangered species. By showing population trend and reproductive dynamics, this study will provide insight for targeted conservation and long-term population sustainability.