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24% of Migratory Species Face Extinction
6 Mar
Summary
- Nearly a quarter of migratory species are critically endangered.
- Conservation status for many species is declining overall.
- Habitat loss and overexploitation are the primary threats.
An interim report indicates that approximately 24% of migratory species are now threatened with extinction. This update, to be presented at the UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species COP15 in Brazil, highlights a deteriorating conservation status for many species.
Although conservation efforts have led to improvements for a few species, the report identifies 26 CMS-listed species, including numerous shorebirds, have moved to higher extinction risk categories. Overexploitation, habitat loss, and fragmentation are cited as the most significant global threats.
The report also noted that the ongoing avian influenza pandemic, H5N1, may have far-reaching consequences. Mass mortality events have affected various bird species, including critically endangered African Penguins. The global extinction of the Slender-billed Curlew is considered confirmed.
