Abstract

The Himalayan Owl (Strix nivicolum), a rare and endangered species in South Korea, had not previously been recorded using nest boxes. This study reports the first confirmed breeding of the Himalayan Owl in a nest box installed in South Korea. Within one month of installation, a breeding pair occupied the nest box, resulting in the successful fledging of two chicks. This finding demonstrates that breeding confirmation can contribute to the designation of Grade 1 areas under South Korea’s Ecological and Natural Map. Moreover, it emphasizes the potential of nest box installations in contributing to broader biodiversity goals that align with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly by advancing other effective area-based conservation measures.