The Hudsonian godwit, facing a dramatic 95% population decline, has been highlighted for urgent conservation efforts at the CMS COP15 in Campo Grande, Brazil. This matter is crucial for the UPSC as it pertains to GS Paper 3, focusing on environmental conservation and biodiversity. Last Updated: 26-03-2026

Key Facts About Hudsonian Godwit

Scientific Name: Limosa haemastica
Description: A migratory shorebird capable of flying 11,000 km non-stop during its 30,000 km annual migration.
Population Decline: 95% decline, highlighting urgent conservation needs.
Threats: Climate change, habitat alteration, and wetland loss.
Conservation Status: Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Convention: CMS is a legally binding treaty under UNEP for migratory species protection.

Global Conservation Efforts and Challenges

The Hudsonian godwit’s plight underscores the broader challenges of migratory bird conservation, crucial for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. India's commitment to international treaties like the CMS aligns with its strategic goals of sustainable development and environmental protection, contributing to global biodiversity rankings and international conservation efforts.

UPSC Relevance

GS Paper 3: Environment and biodiversity conservation.
Prelims: Questions on migratory species, CMS, and conservation status.
Mains: Analytical themes on international environmental treaties and their impact on biodiversity.
Essay Paper: Topics on global environmental challenges and solutions.

FAQ Section

What is the Hudsonian godwit? The Hudsonian godwit is a migratory shorebird known for its long-distance flights, traveling up to 30,000 km annually between the Arctic and South America.
Why is the Hudsonian godwit important? Its significant population decline highlights urgent conservation needs, reflecting broader environmental challenges and the necessity for international cooperation.
What are the key features of the CMS? The CMS is an international treaty that mandates the protection of migratory species, requiring countries to conserve habitats and prevent migration obstacles.

Scientific Name: Limosa haemastica
Description: Capable of flying 11,000 km non-stop during migration.
Conservation Status: Classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Primary Threats: Climate change, habitat alteration, and wetland loss.
CMS Convention: A legally binding treaty for the protection of migratory species.
Adoption Year: 1979 in Bonn, Germany.
Appendix I: Lists endangered migratory species needing strict protection.
Appendix II: Focuses on species needing international cooperation.
Conference of the Parties (COP): Reviews implementation and updates conservation measures.
Urgent Action: Highlighted at CMS COP15 due to population decline.
Habitat Dependency: Relies on predictable geological clocks and food resources.
Migration Route: Breeds in the Arctic and migrates to Patagonia.
Infrastructure Threats: Salmon and oyster farming impacting feeding zones.
Wetland Changes: US agricultural practices affecting resting sites.
International Responsibility: Range states must protect listed species.
Global Framework: CMS provides a framework for habitat conservation.

Conservation Efforts for the Hudsonian Godwit at CMS COP15

Key Points

Key Facts About Hudsonian Godwit

Global Conservation Efforts and Challenges

UPSC Relevance

FAQ Section

Detailed Coverage

Practice Questions

The designation given to a legally binding international treaty aimed at the protection of migratory species and their habitats, which was adopted in Bonn, Germany in 1979 and addresses the challenges faced by species that migrate across national boundaries, is commonly referred to as what?