Declining Mammoth Migrations Across the Globe

In a stark reminder of the impact humans have on the natural world, a recent report has revealed that over 44% of the 1,189 migratory species tracked by the United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species are experiencing falling populations. This alarming figure underscores the urgent need to stem the losses and initiate recovery efforts to ensure future generations can experience nature in all its glory.

The primary culprit behind this decline is overexploitation, with human hunting and fishing being significant threats. This startling revelation is part of the first-ever UN stocktake on the State of the World's Migratory Species, a comprehensive report released in 2024.

The report, however, only covers a tiny fraction of all migratory species, with many species not listed under the UN convention receiving no protection. For instance, shark and ray populations have plummeted since 1970 due to overfishing, and 90% of migratory fish species are threatened with extinction.

Despite these grim statistics, there are examples of migratory species that continue to inspire awe. The Bar-tailed Godwit, for instance, has become a symbol of resilience. This remarkable bird sets a world record with a continuous flight of 13,560km from Alaska to southern Australia in October 2022. Every year, these godwits embark on a gruelling journey, flying non-stop from Siberia to Australia without stopping, covering a distance of 13,000 km.

The Godwit's physical features enable it to undertake such a feat. It has lightweight, streamlined, and rigid structures, making it an excellent long-distance flier.

However, not all migratory species are as fortunate. The humpback whale, once headed for rapid extinction, was saved after the cessation of whaling. Unfortunately, many other species are still at risk due to factors such as hunting or fishing, development, and loss of safe flyways, swimways, and pathways.

The UN report underscores the need for immediate action. Each country needs to "actually do" what it has already promised for agreements to be effective in conserving migratory species. Important Bird & Biodiversity Areas and the Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean system can provide easy access to knowledge on how migratory species use and move through the world.

The Migratory Connectivity in the Ocean (MiCO) is developing a system that aggregates and generates actionable knowledge to support worldwide conservation efforts for numerous migratory species and the oceans on which they depend.

The 1981 Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of Japan for the Protection of Migratory Birds in Danger of Extinction and their Environment, while a step in the right direction, does not include all nations. The United States and Canada, for example, have not participated in this agreement.

In light of these findings, it is clear that the conservation of migratory species is a global responsibility. The Conversation, an independent source of news and views, sourced from the academic and research community and delivered direct to the public, calls for increased awareness and action to ensure the survival of these incredible creatures and the ecosystems they support.