Climate change impacts on migratory species: the path ahead

Abstract

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is conducting research for the UNEP Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) into the effects of climate change on species protected by CMS. Species have been identified as having a high, medium or low vulnerability to the threat of climate change and have been categorised on the basis of a standardised assessment process. This leaflet summarises the emerging results from an assessment of CMS Appendix I species, in order to provide guidance to policy makers at the earliest opportunity. Results highlight a number of processes by which greenhouse gas emissions and climatic changes will increasingly threaten migratory species; all species assessed will be affected by these impacts. A broad set of biological, geographical and socio-economic factors will influence species vulnerability. Identifying these factors and developing further conservation management practices will be essential for the short term future of these species. In the long term, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions is vital if we are to avoid unmanageable levels of climate change.