Urgent Measures Required for the Conservation of Migratory Species
Key Points
According to a recent UN report, 49% of migratory species populations are declining, highlighting an urgent need for conservation efforts. This issue is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 3, which covers environmental conservation. Last Updated: 09-03-2026
Key Facts About Migratory Species Conservation
- 49% of migratory species under the CMS are declining, up from 44% in two years.
- The CMS (Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals) is a legally binding treaty adopted in 1979.
- India has been a party to the CMS since 1983.
- Key threats include habitat loss, avian flu, and overexploitation.
- Species like the Saiga Antelope and Scimitar-horned Oryx have shown recovery due to targeted conservation efforts.
- The next CMS COP 15 will be held in March 2026 in Campo Grande, Brazil.
Global Conservation Challenges and India's Role
The decline in migratory species is a global concern impacting biodiversity and ecological balance. India's strategic location along major flyways, such as the Central Asian Flyway, underscores its critical role in conservation efforts. The country's commitment to international treaties like the CMS aligns with its broader environmental and ecological goals, contributing to global biodiversity targets.
UPSC Relevance
This topic is relevant for GS Paper 3 under environmental conservation and biodiversity. For the prelims, questions may focus on the CMS, migratory species, and related conservation efforts. In the mains, candidates might explore themes related to international cooperation in environmental conservation and the role of treaties like the CMS in safeguarding biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS)?
The CMS, or Bonn Convention, is a UNEP-administered treaty adopted in 1979 that provides a global legal framework for conserving migratory species and their habitats across national boundaries. - Why is the conservation of migratory species important?
Conserving migratory species is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, ecological balance, and the health of ecosystems, which are vital for human survival and well-being. - What are the key features of the CMS?
The CMS includes two appendices: Appendix I lists endangered migratory species requiring strict protection, while Appendix II lists species with unfavorable conservation status benefiting from international cooperation through Agreements or MoUs.
Detailed Coverage
- 49% of migratory species are declining, up from 44% in two years.
- 24% of CMS-listed species are now facing extinction.
- Major threats include habitat loss, avian flu, and overexploitation.
- Out of 386 reassessed species, 34 were moved to a more threatened category.
- 69% of declining species are migratory shorebirds.
- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is causing mass mortality.
- Habitat fragmentation due to infrastructure is a major concern.
- Overfishing and illegal taking threaten various species.
- Successful recoveries include Scimitar-horned Oryx and Saiga Antelope.
- Migratory species rely on critical sites for breeding and feeding.
- India plays a significant role in migratory species conservation.
- The CMS aims to protect migratory animals and their habitats.
- Appendices I and II outline species needing protection and cooperation.
- Urgent action is needed to reverse population declines.
- Key actions include habitat protection, tackling overexploitation, and addressing climate change.
- International cooperation under the CMS is essential for success.