Global agreement boosts protection for migratory species

A landmark agreement was reached at the Cop15 migratory species conference in Brazil, aiming to halt biodiversity loss and protect species like manta rays, jaguars, and migratory birds. Over 130 governments signed off on new measures to reduce bycatch, expand protections for threatened species, and strengthen cross-border wildlife connectivity.

The agreement includes “blue corridors” for turtles and “flyways” for birds, aiding species recovery and conserving ecosystems essential for local communities. However, scientists warn that 49% of migratory species covered by the agreement are declining, up from 44% two years ago. “This is a major breakthrough for migratory birds,” said Birdlife International, while the World Wildlife Fund called it a “vital step for both people and nature”.