In an encouraging milestone for Korea’s long-term wildlife restoration efforts, a crested ibis was observed resting among the ancient canopy of the Korea National Arboretum, marking the first time the endangered bird has been sighted in the historic Gwangneung Forest in Pocheon, northeast of Seoul. The national arboretum said that the bird was first spotted on camera within the sanctuary grounds. Photographs and video footage revealed a distinct yellow identification ring attached to the bird's leg, indicating it originated from a captive-breeding and reintroduction initiative. Officials from the arboretum have partnered with the Upo Ibis Restoration Center in Changnyeong, South Gyeongsang Province, to trace the specimen’s exact release date, flight paths and movement history, with specialists from the center conducting on-site investigations. The sighting represents a significant ecological triumph for the region. The crested ibis (Nipponia nippon) once faced near-total extinction across the Korean Peninsula due to severe habitat loss, agricultural pesticides and deforestation ove