- The 13th Conference of Parties (COP) on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), organized by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), concluded in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, on February 22, 2020.
- The theme of CMS COP-13 revolved around ‘Migratory species connect the planet, and we welcome them home.’
- During the conference, the mascot chosen was ‘Gibi – The Great Indian Bustard.’ This species holds a critically endangered status according to the IUCN and is granted the highest protection status, being listed in Schedule I under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
- Logo: Kolam Art form of Southern India.
Utilizing the intricate Kolam art form originating from Southern India, this logo creatively captures various key migratory species in India, including the Amur falcon and humpback whale.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Indian Subcontinent’s Major Bird Flyway Network: Central Asian Flyway (CAF):
- Encompassing areas stretching from the Arctic to the Indian Oceans, the Central Asian Flyway (CAF) serves as the primary bird flyway network for the Indian subcontinent.
- India as President for the Next Three Years:
- India assumes the role of the president for the next three years, reflecting its commitment to leading conservation efforts for migratory species.
- European Union’s Draft Resolution: EUROBATS Agreement
- The European Union has presented a draft resolution focusing on insect decline under the EUROBATS Agreement.
- ‘State of India’s Birds Report 2020’ Highlights:
- The ‘State of India’s Birds Report 2020’ was released, revealing that 79% of Indian bird species experienced a decline in population.
Three Targeted Migratory Mammals:
1-Gobi Bear:
- Habitat: Gobi Desert of Mongolia
- Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List)
2-Persian Leopards:
- Habitat: Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia
- Conservation Status: Endangered (IUCN Red List)
3-Urials (Wild Sheep):
- Habitat: Found in Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and India
- Conservation Status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List)
Additions to CMS Appendices at COP13:
Ten new species were added to CMS Appendices at COP13, with seven placed in the strictest protection category (Appendix I). Notable species include the Asian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard, Jaguar, Bengal Florican, Antipodean Albatross, Little Bustard, and the Oceanic White-tip Shark.
- Appendix II Listings:
- The Urial, Tope Shark, and Smooth Hammerhead Shark were listed for protection under Appendix II, emphasizing the need for enhanced international cooperation and conservation actions for migratory species with unfavorable conservation status.
- Status of Migratory Species Report:
- The first-ever report on the Status of Migratory Species, presented at CMS COP13, indicates that despite some success stories, populations of most migratory species covered by CMS are declining. The COP acknowledged the necessity for a more comprehensive review to better understand individual species’ status and the primary threats they face.
Cross-Cutting Policy Measures Agreed at COP13:
- Integrating biodiversity and migratory species considerations into national energy and climate policies, promoting wildlife-friendly renewable energy.
- Strengthening initiatives to combat the illegal killing and trade of migratory birds.
- Conducting a review of bycatch levels of rays and sharks and implementing bycatch mitigation measures for marine mammals in national fishing operations.
- Mitigating the impacts of linear infrastructures like railways and roads on migratory species.
- Enhancing understanding of the importance of animal culture and social complexity for the conservation of endangered species.
- Investigating possible trade in CMS Appendix I species and its implications for their conservation status.
FAQs – 13th Conference of Parties to CMS
1. What is CMS COP-13, and when did it take place?
A: The 13th Conference of Parties (COP) on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) occurred in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, concluding on February 22, 2020.
2. What was the theme of CMS COP-13?
A: The theme of CMS COP-13 was ‘Migratory species connect the planet, and we welcome them home.’
3. What is the significance of the mascot ‘Gibi – The Great Indian Bustard’?
A: The mascot, representing the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard, symbolizes the conservation focus of CMS COP-13 and is listed in Schedule I under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
4. How was the Kolam Art form used during CMS COP-13?
A: The intricate Kolam art form from Southern India was utilized in the logo of CMS COP-13, creatively depicting various key migratory species, such as the Amur falcon and humpback whale.
5. What is the Central Asian Flyway (CAF), and why is it relevant to CMS COP-13?
A: CAF is the primary bird flyway network for the Indian subcontinent, covering areas from the Arctic to the Indian Oceans. It highlights the extensive migratory routes crucial for avian conservation.
6. What role will India play in CMS for the next three years?
A: India assumes the role of the president for the next three years, indicating its commitment to leading conservation efforts for migratory species.
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