Migratory species increasingly under threat – UN report

An assessment by the United Nations reveals that over 20% of migratory species under international protection face the threat of extinction, including nearly all nomadic fish. From humpback whales to Dalmatian pelicans, billions of animals undertake seasonal journeys across oceans, land, and skies annually. The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) report highlights the peril faced by migratory species due to human pollution, the spread of invasive species, and the climate crisis.

22% of species on the brink of extinction

The evaluation of migratory animals protected by the treaty indicates that 22% of the 1,189 CMS-listed species are on the brink of extinction. Almost half, or 44%, are experiencing population declines, primarily due to unsustainable pressure from habitat loss and overexploitation. A staggering 97% of sharks, rays, and sturgeons on the list face a high risk of extinction, with their populations decreasing by 90% since the 1970s.

Migratory wildlife, known for their extensive journeys, engage in some of nature’s most spectacular movements, such as the Serengeti wildebeest migration from Tanzania to Kenya and the upstream return of Pacific salmon along the US West Coast for breeding.

Analysis reveals that gorillas and nearly 50% of all turtles covered by the convention are at risk of disappearing. The list of declining species includes bar-tailed godwits, renowned for their nonstop 8,000-mile flight between Alaska and Australia, the straw-coloured fruit bat, engaged in the largest mammal migration across Africa, and the critically endangered European eel.

Globally to migratory species at risk

As governments convene for a summit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, to discuss enhanced protection for global migratory species, the report underscores the urgency of the situation. CMS’ Executive secretary Amy Fraenkel expressed deep concern about the escalating risk of extinction, underlining that governments have a pivotal role in addressing the declines.

Fraenkel stated, “The reason why species are covered by the convention is because they are in trouble – it is not surprising to find that some of them are endangered. The problem is the trend: 44% of listed species are in decline, and that increasing extinction risk is something that applies globally to migratory species.” She highlighted that habitat loss affects three in four species, while seven out of 10 are impacted by overexploitation, encompassing intentional killing through hunting or poisoning, as well as bycatch. Fraenkel emphasized the broad scope of migratory species, including whales, lions, gorillas, giraffes, and numerous birds, contributing to the substantial cause for alarm.Top of Form

Urgent need to protect critical areas for migration

To safeguard the remaining populations and aid in their recovery, the report’s authors propose minimizing human infrastructure along key flyways, swim-ways, and migration paths. They emphasize the importance of understanding and protecting critical areas for migrations. Despite ongoing conservation efforts, 70 listed species, including the steppe eagle, Egyptian vulture, and wild camel, have experienced population declines over the past three decades.

Inger Andersen, the UN’s environment chief, underscored the opportunity for the global community to translate the latest scientific findings into tangible conservation actions, stating, “Given the precarious situation of many of these animals, we cannot afford to delay.”

Fraenkel added, “Addressing the drivers of environmental change, such as habitat destruction from agriculture, urban sprawl, and infrastructure like rail, road, and fences, is crucial. Ecosystem integrity is particularly vital for migratory species—they rely on specific sites for breeding, feeding, and travel. If these sites are inaccessible or no longer exist, it will undoubtedly be detrimental.”

The convention focuses on migratory species that require international cooperation for their survival. The report identifies 399 threatened migratory species not currently listed under the convention, highlighting the need for broader efforts to protect these vulnerable populations.