UN protects 40 migratory species worldwide

March 30, 2026

The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) has officially expanded its global protection list, adding 40 new migratory species, including the iconic snowy owl—widely recognized from the Harry Potter films.

This milestone decision was finalized during the COP15 summit on migratory species, held in Campo Verde, Brazil. The event gathered delegates from 132 nations along with representatives from the European Union, making it one of the most significant international conferences focused on wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection.

Newly protected species under CMS

Among the species granted enhanced international protection are:

• The snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus)

• The Hudsonian godwit (Limosa haemastica), a long-distance migratory shorebird facing extinction risks

• The great hammerhead shark (Sphyrna mokarran), a critically endangered marine predator

The updated list also includes terrestrial mammals such as the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) and aquatic species like the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), reflecting a broad effort to safeguard biodiversity across ecosystems.

Global conservation commitments

Countries that are signatories to the CMS treaty are legally required to:

• Protect endangered migratory species

• Preserve and restore critical habitats

• Remove barriers to migration routes

• Collaborate internationally to ensure species survival

Biodiversity crisis and urgent warnings

The summit took place in Campo Verde, located in Brazil’s Pantanal wetlands—one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth within the southern Amazon basin.

A report released ahead of the conference revealed alarming trends:

• Nearly 49% of CMS-listed species are experiencing population declines

• Approximately 25% face a high risk of global extinction

In addition, a separate UN assessment highlighted a severe decline in migratory freshwater fish populations. These species are vital not only for maintaining river ecosystems but also for supporting millions of people who depend on them for food and livelihoods.

Key threats to migratory species

Major environmental pressures continue to endanger migratory wildlife worldwide, including:

• Habitat destruction

• Overfishing

• Water pollution across major river systems—from the Amazon to the Danube

These threats disrupt natural migration patterns and jeopardize species that undertake some of the longest journeys in the animal kingdom.

Brazil’s role in global environmental leadership

Brazil has recently played a central role in global environmental efforts. In addition to hosting this CMS summit, the country also hosted the COP30 climate conference in Belém, further solidifying its position as a key player in international conservation and climate action initiatives.