Migratory species protection at COP15 will consider adding 42 animal species to the appendices of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species, expanding international cooperation for species facing population declines across land, sea, and air.
Migratory species protection at COP15 comes as scientists warn that many animals traveling across borders are under increasing pressure from habitat loss, climate change, and overexploitation. Governments will meet in Campo Grande, Brazil, from March 23 to 29, 2026, to review the proposed listings and strengthen international conservation commitments.
The proposals include species such as the snowy owl, striped hyena, and great hammerhead shark. Scientific experts reviewed the nominations in December 2025, and all 42 additions now advance to formal consideration by member states. One species, the Bukhara deer, has been proposed for removal from the highest protection category following population recovery.
The snowy owl has declined significantly in parts of its range over the past three decades. As a top Arctic predator, it serves as an indicator of ecosystem health. Climate change, habitat shifts, and human pressures have contributed to declines across its migratory route.
The striped hyena, found across parts of Africa and Asia, faces fragmented habitat and reduced prey availability. Fewer than 10,000 mature individuals are estimated to remain globally. The species plays an important ecological role as a scavenger, recycling nutrients and helping prevent the spread of disease.
In marine ecosystems, the great hammerhead shark has experienced steep declines driven by fishing pressure and high market demand for fins. As an apex predator, the species helps maintain balance in ocean food webs.
Migratory species protection at COP15 would place these animals under Appendix I or Appendix II of the convention. Appendix I requires strict protection and habitat conservation for endangered species. Appendix II encourages international cooperation through regional agreements for species that would benefit from coordinated management.
The convention currently includes more than 1,300 species. However, scientific assessments indicate that many migratory species remain at risk. A recent global review found that nearly half of the listed migratory species are experiencing population declines, while others have stabilized or improved under targeted conservation programs.
Migratory species face unique challenges because they cross multiple national jurisdictions. Effective protection requires coordination along entire migration routes, from breeding areas to feeding grounds.
Migratory species protection at COP15 also highlights the importance of ecological connectivity. Urban expansion, infrastructure development, and land conversion can fragment migration corridors. Reconnecting habitats and reducing barriers improves survival rates for animals traveling long distances.
Overexploitation remains a major concern. Direct hunting, bycatch in fisheries, and illegal trade affect many terrestrial and marine species. The convention supports task forces addressing illegal killing, trade, and infrastructure impacts.
While some major countries are not parties to the convention, many nations cooperate through regional agreements and memoranda of understanding. These frameworks support shared monitoring, habitat protection, and enforcement efforts.
Funding and implementation remain critical factors. Translating listings into measurable outcomes depends on national legislation, enforcement capacity, and collaboration among governments, scientists, and communities.
Migratory species protection at COP15 includes attention to climate adaptation. Rising temperatures alter breeding timing, food availability, and migration routes. Protecting habitat across elevation gradients and international borders helps species adapt to changing conditions.
The proposals span terrestrial mammals, birds, sharks, fish, and other wildlife, demonstrating the global scope of the issue. Migratory animals provide essential ecosystem services, including pollination, seed dispersal, nutrient cycling, and pest control. Many communities also rely on them for food security and income.
Indigenous peoples and local communities are participating in COP15 discussions. Their knowledge of migration routes and habitat use contributes to conservation planning.
Scientific assessments presented at COP15 will inform decision-making, including updated data on migratory freshwater fish and broader state-of-species evaluations. These findings help prioritize action and allocate resources effectively.
Past conservation successes show that coordinated action can work. Some migratory birds and marine species have stabilized where strong protections and monitoring systems are in place. These examples illustrate the potential impact of international cooperation when supported by on-the-ground implementation.
Migratory species protection at COP15 offers governments an opportunity to expand safeguards and strengthen cross-border collaboration. Adding 42 species would not solve every challenge, but it would increase visibility, data collection, and coordinated management.
Migratory animals depend on connected landscapes and shared responsibility. Their survival requires protection throughout their full migratory range.
As delegates gather in Brazil, the proposed listings reflect growing recognition that wildlife conservation cannot stop at national borders. The decisions made at COP15 will shape how countries work together to ensure that migratory species continue their journeys for generations to come.
