From turtles to fruit bats, migratory species are increasingly under threat, warns the United Nations, shedding light on the precarious situation faced by these vital creatures. The report, the first of its kind, highlights the challenges faced by migratory species worldwide, ranging from pollution to the spread of invasive species and the looming climate crisis.
Billions of animals, spanning from humpback whales to Dalmatian pelicans, embark on epic journeys across oceans, continents, and skies every year as part of their natural migratory patterns. However, the new assessment by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) reveals that many of these species are now at risk of disappearing due to human-induced threats including but not limited to animal hunting, climate change, humans expanding their footprint into the natural world with houses and buildings thereby increasing noise and light pollution.
The comprehensive findings of the report depict a deeply concerning landscape, revealing that more than 20% of the 1,189 migratory species listed by the CMS are teetering on the brink of extinction. This distressing statistic is compounded by the revelation that close to half of these species are currently grappling with population declines, driven by a multitude of compounding factors including but not limited to habitat loss and overexploitation, which are exerting relentless and unsustainable pressure on their chances of survival.
However, what emerges as particularly alarming amidst these distressing trends is the precarious plight of sharks, rays, and sturgeons, where an astonishing 97% of these species are now facing an ominous high risk of extinction. Shockingly, their populations have undergone a precipitous decline of 90% since the 1970s, a harrowing testament to the urgency of concerted conservation efforts to stem the tide of biodiversity loss.
Migratory species play indispensable roles in ecosystems, transferring nutrients, pollinating plants, and maintaining biodiversity. Yet, their ability to carry out these vital functions is increasingly jeopardized by human activities. From habitat destruction to climate change-driven disruptions, these threats are pushing migratory species to the brink of extinction. It is imperative that we recognize the invaluable contributions of these species and take decisive action to mitigate the factors driving their decline. By doubling our efforts to protect their habitats, combat pollution, and address climate change, we can ensure the continued survival of migratory species for generations to come.
Key recommendations from the report emphasize the urgent need for international action to protect migratory species and their habitats. Measures include minimizing human infrastructure along migratory routes, identifying and safeguarding critical migration areas, and enhancing conservation efforts to reverse population declines.
The situation calls for a concerted global effort to address the root causes of decline and ensure the long-term survival of migratory species. This entails not only strengthening conservation measures but also tackling broader issues such as habitat destruction, overexploitation, and climate change.
Against the backdrop of mounting threats, the international community must prioritize the protection of migratory species and commit to comprehensive conservation strategies. Only through collaborative action and sustained efforts can we hope to safeguard these iconic animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. It is imperative that governments, organizations, and individuals around the world join forces to address the multifaceted challenges facing migratory species. By doubling down on our conservation efforts and fostering global cooperation, we can ensure a brighter future for these remarkable creatures and the delicate ecosystems they rely on for survival.
