COP15 Strengthens Protections for 40 Migratory Species Amid Crisis

From hammerhead sharks to snowy owls, global leaders act to reverse biodiversity collapse. But with one in four migratory species at risk, is it enough? Indigenous wisdom takes center stage in conservation—here's why it matters.

, and Administrator

2026 April 6 . 8:01 PM

1 min read

The image shows an open book with a variety of animals and plants depicted on it. The book contains... — The image shows an open book with a variety of animals and plants depicted on it. The book contains pictures and text, providing detailed information about the animals and their habitats.

COP15 Strengthens Protections for 40 Migratory Species Amid Crisis

Governments at the COP15 biodiversity conference have strengthened protections for 40 migratory species. The move comes as nearly half of all migratory animals face declining populations. Experts warn that one in four is now at risk of extinction. The conference saw agreements on cutting bycatch and safeguarding sea turtles. Delegates also recognised the role of Indigenous knowledge in conservation, with 28 Indigenous groups contributing to discussions. Their traditional practices were highlighted as vital for protecting migratory routes.

Among the species granted stricter protections are the great hammerhead shark, striped hyena, snowy owl, and giant otter. These additions reflect growing concerns over habitat loss and human activity. Meanwhile, migratory freshwater fish have suffered an 81% population collapse, raising alarms over ecosystem health. The Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland, has faced severe wildfires since 2020. In response, Brazilian President Lula signed decrees creating two new protected areas, covering 104,000 hectares. The measures align with the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.

The new protections cover 40 species, but challenges remain for the 1,189 migratory animals tracked globally. With one in four still threatened, conservation efforts must address habitat destruction, overfishing, and climate change. The COP15 agreements mark a step toward stabilising declining populations.