Conserving endangered migratory birds of prey
Experts from around 60 countries met on 22 October at Loch Lomond, Scotland in a major effort to develop an international agreement to conserve endangered migratory birds of prey in Europe, Africa and Asia.
The UK Government has played the leading role in developing this agreement, and has worked in partnership with the United Arab Emirates Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi. The initiative aims to bring together expertise from around the world to monitor and protect these birds and raise funds for future conservation activity. The joint actions of countries along the international migration routes of birds of prey are critical for their conservation.
In 2005, an independent study commissioned by Defra found that more than fifty per cent of the birds likely to be covered by the agreement were threatened either at the global or regional level. Some showing signs of rapid or long-term decline. It confirmed that an international agreement would benefit the conservation of these birds.
"Halting the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010"
Eagles, falcons, harriers, kites, buzzards and the osprey are among the 77 species of birds which could benefit from such an agreement.
Joan Ruddock said:
“There is no doubt these magnificent birds are under serious threat. Our commitment to their conservation is clear. The Government has brought together experts from around the world to develop an agreement for their conservation. I have pledged an initial £10,000 towards the practical conservation work that an agreement will undertake.
“Such an agreement would build on current conservation efforts. In the UK we have had success at re-introducing the Red Kite in England and Scotland, the White-tailed Sea-eagle to Scotland, and are working to extend the range of the Osprey.
“The agreement would address the future problems that climate change will bring to these migratory birds, and has the potential to contribute to our objectives of halting the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010.“
The experts discussed the geographical boundaries of the proposed agreement, the species to be covered, and whether or not it should be legally binding. The agreement is expected to be finalised at a meeting in the United Arab Emirates in 2008.
Threats to migratory birds of prey
A variety of human-induced threats are driving declines in migratory birds of prey, such as habitat loss and degradation and electrocution by power lines. Climate change is a further concern, as is direct persecution in the form of illegal shooting and poisoning.
As top predators these birds are sensitive indicators of the condition of the environments they pass through, such as changes in the global climate which can affect wildlife and people. These extraordinary birds are also attractions for tourism ventures along their migratory routes.
Defra’s commitment to protecting threatened wildlife
The Government works in partnership with wildlife organisations to conserve and enhance biodiversity and we are making good progress. We have halted the loss of the skylark and dormouse. The bittern, a rare waterbird, is now making a comeback. We have stepped up efforts to combat the illegal wildlife trade. Just over 76% of sites of scientific special interest are in favourable or recovering condition, and we have increased the areas of lowland heathland, one of our most threatened habitats.
The UK contributes to the conservation of wildlife internationally through a number of funding schemes, and by taking a leading role in a range of international conventions. We have commissioned research into the impacts of climate change on biodiversity. The results are shaping our policies and have helped us to produce guidance which explains how wildlife can be helped to adapt to climate change.
Update: 25 October
Following the meeting at Loch Lomond on 22 October, a framework for international agreement has been established to tackle the threats faced by migratory birds of prey.
Joan Ruddock said:
“I am truly delighted so much progress had been made, and I am reassured that this framework paves the way for lasting improvements for these birds of prey.”
The agreement will drive forward international action to conserve the birds. Delegates agreed that climate change posed an increasing risk to the conservation of birds of prey and this will exacerbate problems already caused by agricultural intensification and persecution. Reductions in human pressures are needed to make the populations of these birds more resilient in the face of climate change.
Intense discussions have concluded which species and geographical areas to be included in the framework, and the range of conservation and management measures to benefit the birds.
It is intended that government parties will formally sign the framework next year at a concluding meeting that will be held in the United Arab Emirates.
Further information
Convention on migratory species
Page published: 28 August 2007