State of the World’s Migratory Species – 2024 Report

February 12, 2024

The State of the World’s Migratory Species – 2024 report was launched by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), a UN biodiversity treaty on February 12, 2024.

It provides the first comprehensive global assessment on the conservation status and threats facing migratory animals.

The report finds that while some species are improving, nearly half of CMS-listed migratory species are declining and more than one-fifth are threatened with extinction.

Key Findings

The report reveals several concerning trends for migratory species:

Nearly half of CMS-listed species are showing population declines
More than one-in-five are threatened with extinction
97% of CMS-listed fish are threatened
Extinction risk is growing globally even for non-CMS listed migratory species
Overexploitation and habitat loss are the top threats facing migratory species

Recommendations

To address these threats, the report provides several recommendations, including:

Increase protection of key habitats and migratory routes
Address species most at risk of extinction
Tackle climate change, pollution, and invasive species
Expand conservation efforts to migratory species not currently protected

Hope for Recovery

While many migratory species face severe threats, the report also shows recovery is possible through coordinated conservation efforts. Examples include:

Illegal bird netting reduced 91% in Cyprus
The Saiga Antelope brought back from brink of extinction in Kazakhstan

Call for Action

The report issues an urgent call to action for stronger policies and conservation efforts worldwide to protect migratory species. Key priorities include reducing unsustainable use, protecting key sites, addressing endangered species, and tackling climate change and pollution. International cooperation is critical, as migratory species cross borders and depend on multiple countries working together.

About the Convention

The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) is an environmental treaty focused on conserving migratory animals globally. It provides a platform for countries to coordinate conservation efforts for terrestrial, marine and avian migratory species. Since 1979, CMS membership has grown to 133 countries working together to sustainably manage migratory wildlife.

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