Solgae is a large bird belonging to the order Passeriformes and family Muscicapidae, with a length of 58.5cm for males and 68.5cm for females, and a wingspan of 157-162cm. Its distinct concave tail and white spots on the underside of the wings are its most prominent features.
Solgae used to be a fairly common bird in the past, but it has become rare to see nowadays. Judging by the various proverbs about Solgae, it seems that it was quite common and observed around villages in the old days.
For example, there is a saying "When Solgae appears, chicks have nowhere to hide." This means that when a scary and powerful presence like Solgae shows up, the weak and powerless ones cannot stand their ground and either shrink back or run away.
Another saying goes "As restless as a Solgae over a fish market." This implies that when someone finds something interesting, they cannot leave that place and keep circling around, just like a Solgae hovering over a fish market.
There is also a saying "When Solgae flies, fish leap," indicating that all creatures enjoy life to the fullest.
Although Solgae, which used to be common in the past, is now considered a rare species and designated as a Natural Monument and a second-class endangered animal, it can still be occasionally spotted during birdwatching in the Saemangeum area.
