A new report from the United Nations warns that one in five migratory species is at risk of extinction. The report, which is the most comprehensive assessment of migratory species to date, reveals that nearly half of the world's migratory species are in decline.
The report highlights the threats faced by a wide range of migratory species, including birds, mammals, fish, and insects. These species travel across international borders in search of food, breeding sites, and better habitats. However, factors such as habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation have put them at risk.
Some of the key findings of the report include:
- 37% of freshwater migratory fish species are threatened with extinction, primarily due to the construction of dams and barriers that block their migration routes.
- Leatherback turtles, which have the longest migration of any reptile, are at high risk of extinction due to threats such as accidental capture in fishing gear, pollution, and climate change.
- Fruit bats, which play a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal, are under threat from habitat loss, hunting, and conflicts with humans.
- Monarch butterflies, known for their long-distance migration between North America and Mexico, are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
The report emphasizes the need for international collaboration and coordinated efforts to protect migratory species. It calls for measures such as creating protected areas, reducing pollution, and improving the management of fisheries and hunting practices. The report also stresses the importance of addressing the underlying causes of species decline, including unsustainable agriculture, urbanization, and climate change. [San Diego
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