® @ CMS
CONVENTION ON Distr: General MIGRATORY UNEP/CMS/Conf.9.10 SPECIES 13 October 2008
ORIGINAL: ENGLISH
NINTH MEETING OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES Rome, 1-5 December 2008
Agenda Item 10.0
ANALYSIS AND SYNTHESIS OF NATIONAL REPORTS (Prepared by the CMS Secretariat in collaboration with UNEP-WCMC)
BACKGROUND
il, Article VI(3) of the Convention requires Parties to inform the Conference of the Parties through the Secretariat, at least six months prior to each ordinary meeting of the Conference, about the measures that they are taking to implement the provisions of the Convention. Consequently, the Conference of the Parties adopted, at its 7'" meeting a standard report format. The standard report format has since been updated and improved by the Standing Committee, following lessons learnt from the reporting rounds for the 7" and 8" meetings of the Conference of the Parties.
Ds National reports continue to provide the best means available to assess the status of implementation of the Convention, and a key tool to guide decisions on current and future strategic priorities. The present document provides an overview of the status of implementation of the Convention as emerging from the information provided by the 54 National Reports received by 31 July 2008. All National Reports were submitted using the standard reporting format.
3. This analysis summarises data provided in section II General Overviews (omitting questions on specific Appendix I species) and sections III, V, VI, [LX and X of the National
Reports. A more detailed summary of this information is provided in Annex | to this report.
4. All percentages referred to in this document relate to the total number of Parties reporting (54), not total number of Parties to the Convention (108).
APPENDIX I SPECIES: OVERVIEW OF ISSUES & ACTIVITIES
5). Obstacles to migration, other major threats, and corresponding mitigation measures, are summarised in Table 1 for each of the six major animal groups (birds, marine mammals, marine turtles, terrestrial mammals (other than bats), bats and other taxa). Further actions relevant to all these groups include: development of better legislation; awareness-raising through education; research work; development of action or management plans.
6. By-catch continues to be the threat reported most generally for marine species (birds, mammals and turtles). Methods employed to counteract by-catch include: use of alternative hook types, excluder devices, lines to scare birds, acoustic deterrent devices (“pingers”), banning of certain net types, setting lines at night time.
th Other major threats for most groups include: pollution, particularly of wetland habitats for migratory birds; marine debris (including entanglement problems) affecting marine mammals and turtles; acoustic pollution (seismic/electromagnetic surveys that disturb marine mammals). Clean-up programmes, regulations and acoustic guidelines are being implemented.
8. Habitat destruction, modification and fragmentation are the main threats influencing migratory birds (other than seabirds) and terrestrial mammals, including bats. Efforts to alleviate these threats include: creation of protected areas; habitat restoration; creation of migratory corridors. The importance of co-operation between Range States in the management of trans-boundary parks and the setting up of migration corridors was noted.
OF Another obstacle common to all groups is the lack of relevant legislation, or difficulties in enforcement, both of which lead to poaching and illegal trade. Further guidelines on the development and implementation of legislation were noted as requirements by several Parties. A number of Parties identified climate change and related events such as droughts or floods as threats for all groups. Specific actions to address climatic changes were rarely reported. Many Parties are also signatories to the Kyoto Protocol, but only two Parties reported this.
10. The taking of species is prohibited by the following percentages of responding Range States as classified by major group: birds (81%); marine mammals (69%); marine turtles (59%); terrestrial mammals other than bats (33%); bats (28%); other taxa (33%). For all groups, exceptions to the prohibition on take are granted principally for scientific reasons including conservation projects, for use by indigenous groups or to protect people and their property.
11. A summary of mitigation measures implemented to address the different threats is provided in Table 1. Lack of financial support was identified as a factor restricting conservation actions by more than half of the Parties (31).
12. Other forms of assistance that Parties frequently reported as needed included: technical support; equipment; personnel; expert advice. Several Parties also noted the need for advice in developing legislation. Other impediments to conservation action reported include: development pressures: inability to enforce legislation; deficiencies in training; absence of collaborative initiatives relating to migratory species.
NM
Table 1: Obstacles to migration and other major threats plus corresponding mitigation measures
GROUP
Birds
Marine Mammals
Marine Turtles
Terrestrial Mammals (not bats)
Bats
Other Taxa
OBSTACLE OR MAJOR THREAT
By-catch
Habitat destruction/modification (inc. farming)
Pollution, especially of wetlands
Electrocution by power lines Wind turbine collisions Poaching
Illegal trade
By-catch Collisions with boats
Pollution, including acoustic
Commercial whaling/illegal hunting
Whale and dolphin watching
By-catch
Pollution, inc. ingestion of marine debris
Poaching, for consumption and art
Destruction/disturbance nesting beaches
Collection of eggs
Predation of eggs
Habitat fragmentation Poaching Man-made barriers
Poor communication amongst range states Lack of information on population
sizes and migration routes Lack of trans-boundary
mananement Illegal trade
Climate change and drought Insufficient legislation Habitat fragmentation and loss
Vandalism of bat caves
Human consumption
Lack of legislation By-catch and uncontrolled fishing
MITIGATION MEASURES
Fishing regulations, onboard observations, lines to scare birds New protected areas, notably wetland/Ramsar sites
Habitat restoration
Burial/insulation/marking of power lines
Environmental impact assessments
More patrols, prosecution of violators, rangers have powers to order hunters withdrawal and prevent them hunting in public
New legislation, awareness raising
Awareness raising, fishing nets that allow escape, acoustic pingers, no fishing zones Reduced marine traffic zones
Laws on dumping waste, entanglement and clean-up programmes (e.g. the Australian Large Whale Disentanglement Network), electromagnetic and seismic survey guidelines
Security patrols, monitor market places
Guidelines on distance can approach, education of tour operators
Turtle excluder devices, alternative hooks
Regulations, clean-up programmes
Alternative means of subsistence, involvement of communities in conservation
Tourist conduct code, prevention of traffic on beaches
Beach patrols, prohibition on collecting
Cages around eggs, control of dogs, rats and feral pigs Creation of migration corridors
Penalties, increasing security patrols
Ensuring migration routes not occupied by humans International co-operation, establish MoUs
Research and mapping via satellite telemetry projects
Negotiation of border parks with other countries
Laws on commerce
Protected areas networks
New/revised laws
Forest codes to prevent deforestation, restoration of habitats
Caves in protected areas
Education, hunting bans New/revised legislation, inc. bans on certain nets Campaigns to minimise and report by-catch, inclusion in CITES
POTENTIAL NEW SPECIES LISTINGS Appendix 1
13. Seventeen (31%) Parties reporting stated that they are Range States for endangered migratory species that could benefit from inclusion in Appendix I, and recommended 34 species for listing overall (Annex 1, Table 3). This includes 17 bird species, notably: Corncrake (Crex crex); proposed by four Parties); six cetaceans; African elephant (Loxodonta africana); cougar (Puma concolor) and Atlantic Goliath grouper (Epinephelus itajara). Eleven species proposed are listed in Appendix II, and the red knot (Calidris canutus rufa) is proposed, but already listed in Appendix I. New Zealand recommended that eight shark species be considered for inclusion in both Appendices.
14. Two Parties indicated that they were taking steps to propose the listing of three species: Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) (Italy); African elephant (Loxondonta africana), and West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis). Costa Rica is taking steps to list various migratory birds from the northern hemisphere. Support is required from other Parties for these listings. Information about the species and co-operation from other Parties, as well as funds to investigate the cause of population declines, are required prior to some listings being proposed.
Appendix II
15. Seventeen (31%) Parties indicated that they are Range States for migratory species that have an unfavourable conservation status and could benefit from inclusion in Appendix II (Annex 1, Table 4). Forty-five taxa were suggested overall (although six are already listed in Appendix II). This includes: 23 species of bird; several dolphin and bat species; ringed seal (Phoca hispida), Ibex (Capra spp.), argal (Ovis ammon), reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) and cougar (Puma cocolor). Three Parties (Angola, Hungary, Kenya) have initiated discussions to propose the listing of ten species:
Accipiter tachiro African goshawk Alauda arvensis Skylark
Anas erythrorhyncha Red-billed duck Anas sparsa African black duck
Anas undulate Yellow-billed duck Anthus pratensis Meadow pipit
Lullula arborea Woodlark Melanocorypha calandra Calandra lark Rynchops flavirostris African skimmer Stenella clymene Clymene dolphin
16. The reasons given for the lack of action to propose listing of these species include: a complicated administrative process; the need for co-ordination with other Range States; and the need for range mapping.
AGREEMENT DEVELOPMENT
LE Thirty-five Parties stated that they have taken action to initiate or to participate in the development of a new Agreement/MoU; or that they plan to do so in the future.
18. Actions concerning the initiation of new agreements were reported for:
Phoenicopterus jamesi, P. andinus James’ and Andean flamingo Raptors and owls (African-Eurasian area)
Grassland bird species and their habitats (southern South America) Dugong dugon dugong
Cetaceans and their habitats (Pacific Islands)
Marine turtles (Pacific)
Gorilla gorilla gorilla
Loxodonta africana African elephant
Lycaon pictus African wild dog
Migratory sharks
Trans-boundary agreements for:
Acinonyx jubatus cheetah
Uncia uncia snow leopard
Elephas maximus Indian elephant
Panthera tigris tiger
19. Participation in the development of new agreements was frequently reported in particular in relation to the MoU on African—Eurasian raptors and owls (15 Parties). Several Parties also participated in development of MoUs on: grassland birds in South America; dugong; Cetaceans in the Pacific Ocean; monk seal; West African Talks on Cetaceans and their Habitats (WATCH). Five Parties reported that they were involved with the IOSEA marine turtle MoU. Several Parties reported to join agreements on the gorilla, cheetah, African elephant and saiga (Saiga tatarica). Seven Parties attended meetings concerning migratory sharks and contributed to a draft migratory shark MoU.
20. Migratory species reported as being in need of future agreement development include:
Phoenicopterus ruber Caribbean flamingo
Brotogeris pyrrhopterus grey-cheeked parakeet
European grassland passerines
African-Eurasian migratory raptors
Marine mammals
Trichechus senegalensis West African manatee
Caretta caretta loggerhead turtle
Loxodonta africana African elephant, Lycaon pictus African wild dog and Acinonyx jubatus cheetah
7 Procapra gutturosa Mongolian gazelle, Camelus bactrianus wild camel and Uncia uncia snow leopard . Taurotragus derbianus Lord Derby eland . Hippotragus spp. antelope . Migratory sharks in Oceania PROTECTED AREAS
Dale Fifty (93%) Parties reported that they take into account migratory species when establishing/managing protected areas. The most frequently reported ways that migratory species are considered include the use of: (1) EU Habitats Directive/Natura 2000 guidelines; (2) Ramsar Convention guidelines; and (3) national criteria/legislation. When establishing
protected areas several Parties also noted that migratory species are taken into account when creating migration corridors between protected sites.
DD Thirty-five (65%) Parties identified the most important sites in their countries for migratory species, with the number of sites listed ranging from one or two up to nearly 100. Most sites are declared as Specially Protected Areas, Natura 2000 or Ramsar sites. Protected areas include terrestrial areas in 46 countries, aquatic areas in 43 countries and marine areas in 35 countries. In total over 17,500 terrestrial nature reserves/protected sites were noted.
23. The agency/department responsible for actions on protected areas was identified by 48 (89%) Parties. These were mainly environmental, protected-areas, nature, fishing, forestry or farming departments. New protected areas have been designated by 15 (28%) Parties, and management and protection plans have also been developed. Several Parties reported that the establishment of protected areas had yielded positive results including: increased populations of bats, birds and seals (Germany); increased biodiversity (New Zealand); the protection of nesting sites for birds on the CMS Appendices (Belarus); and the restoration of forests through community participation (Togo).
SATELLITE TELEMETRY
24. In the current reporting period 29 (54%) Parties reported that satellite telemetry projects have been carried out. Birds were tracked most often by these projects, and the most common bird species studied included raptors, geese, storks, albatrosses and petrels. Several species from all the other main animal groups were also subject to projects, with one Party tracking 11 bat species (Germany). The main positive outcomes of satellite telemetry projects were identified as:
. Mapping of migratory routes
. Identification of new resting, wintering, breeding or feeding sites . Timing and speed of migration
" Understanding of behaviour.
25. Future projects are planned by 22 (41%) Parties on all major groups of species except bats. The reasons given by Parties for not planning projects for the future mainly included lack of financial resources, limited personnel trained in the technique and lack of equipment.
Resource Mobilisation
26. Forty Parties (74%) reported that they have made resources available for in-country conservation activities. Resources were used for species in all major groups (birds, marine mammals, turtles, terrestrial mammals including bats and other taxa). Not all resources were
dedicated to specific species, some being used for activities benefiting a number of migratory species, such as:
. Bird atlases
. Avian influenza monitoring 7 Protected area creation
s Management plans
7 Awareness campaigns
2 Community-based projects
7 Monitoring of migratory species 7 Reintroduction projects
27. Voluntary contributions to the CMS Trust Fund were reported by eight (15%) Parties, including four that assisted developing countries to attend and participate in CoP meetings (Annex 1, Table 8). Other contributions supported particular species. Eleven (20%) Parties reported voluntary contributions to other countries for conservation activities relating to wetlands and migratory birds, dugongs, cetaceans, marine turtles, gorillas, elephants and sharks (Annex 1, Table 9). Specific projects that received donations included the Avian Influenza Task Force (Belgium), the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (Australia, New Zealand), Sahelo-Saharan Antelopes Project (France) and bats in Lithuania and Ukraine (United Kingdom).
28. Eleven Parties reported that they had provided technical/scientific assistance for activities such as:
research
training courses
establishing biological stations
rat eradication on Phoenix Islands (to benefit Phoenix petrel Pterodroma alba) translocation of addax Addax nasomaculatus and eland Taurotragus oryx (Tunisia)
. Provision of officers for ACAP.
29. Assistance was provided to African countries and Pacific Islands. Additionally Australia has provided China with assistance for the Chinese Bird Banding Centre to assist in the capture, handling and marking of migratory birds.
30. Five Parties reported that they had received financial assistance/support from the CMS Trust Fund which had benefited the following migratory species:
Vicugna vicugna Vicuna (Bolivia)
Anser indicus Bar-headed goose and marine turtles (India)
Reduced by-catch of albatrosses and petrels (Argentina)
Mongolian gazelle and saiga (Mongolia)
Spheniscus humboldti Humboldt’s penguin, Lontra felina marine otter and marine turtles (Pert)
Sil. Twenty-three Parties reported that they had received financial resources or support from other sources. The main supporters were the EU/EU-LIFE Nature Fund (10 Parties) and the GEF/UNDP (6 Parties). Other agencies that provided support include the Ramsar Convention, BirdLife, Wetlands International, WWF, GTZ, the French Fund for the Global Environment, and the US Government and Wildlife Services. Countries in Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and South America benefited from these resources.
CMS COP RESOLUTIONS AND CMS COP RECOMMENDATIONS 32. Parties were asked to report specifically on the implementation of 20 Resolutions.
Twenty Parties reported on by-catch, which affects birds, marine mammals and turtles. Efforts to reduce by-catch included: monitoring using onboard observation programmes;
research on less harmful fishing gear; enforcement of EC regulations; participation in ACAP/ACCOBAMS/ASCOBANS and CCAMLR.
33% Seven Parties reported on activities concerning southern hemisphere albatrosses. In Australia long-line trawlers south of 30°S are required to set lines only at night and have a line to scare away birds. France detects illegal ships using radar and has onboard observers to reduce albatross by-catch. Following the eradication of introduced mammals, France also reported that it is reintroducing albatrosses to the Kerguelen Islands.
34. Twenty-one Parties reported that they carry out environmental impact assessments, with 13 Parties noting they are mandatory for development projects. Twelve Parties carry out impact assessments on wind turbines, including those off shore.
35. Oil pollution contingency/mitigation plans have been put in place by ten Parties. Other activities include training personnel to respond to oil spills, development of legislation on oil disposal and methods to ensure wildlife recovery.
36. The Baltic and Wadden Seas are identified as “particularly sensitive sea areas’. Other Parties are using GIS mapping to identify coastal areas vulnerable to oil spills. Sixteen Parties reported on the electrocution of birds, and efforts are being made to reduce this through co- operation with electrical companies (five Parties) and legislation (six Parties) to provide insulation, visible deflectors, rerouting cables underground and bird-friendly power lines. Three Parties are assessing the numbers and species of birds affected by electrocution.
37. Ten Parties reported on co-operation with other bodies and processes, including other international conventions (CBD, Ramsar), CMS agreements/MoUs (ACCOBAMS, IOSEA), national NGOs and international agencies (BirdLife, RSPB, GEF, UNEP, UNESCO).Ten Parties noted co-operation with other conventions, with several Parties liaising with the CBD, Ramsar Convention, CITES and UNCCD.
38. Thirteen Parties reported on participation in existing and future agreements, including ACAP, AEWA, ACCOBAMS, ASCOBANS, Eurobats, WATCH and various MoUs. Ten Parties noted that the CMS contributed to achievement of the 2010 Biodiversity Target in their countries.
39} Reports from eight Parties mentioned planned future actions on the Antarctic minke, Bryde’s and Pygmy Right Whales, most of which related to population assessments and establishing marine corridors. Australia noted that the IWC assessment agreed for Antarctic minke whales (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) is no longer current, and that the IWC has not yet addressed the pygmy right whale (Caperea marginata).
40. Efforts to reduce adverse human impacts on cetaceans were reported by ten Parties. These include: studies on acoustic pollution, the use of pingers to avoid boat collisions; development of seismic survey guidelines and disentanglement procedures; a fish labelling scheme to certify a sustainable fishing source that does not impact cetaceans (Italy).
41. Activities concerned with likely impacts of climate change were reported on by 13 Parties. Activities being carried out include: research on future impacts; action plan development; determination of good indicator species; development of standardised international protocols on monitoring. Germany reported changes in the spatial and temporal distribution of water birds which may be attributed to climate change.
42. Fifteen Parties reported activities concerned with avian influenza. The ranges of activities initiated include:
. Contingency/strategic plans for prevention, risk assessment and biological analysis of dead birds . Surveillance and monitoring . Establishment of avian influenza task forces/expert groups . Information exchange with other countries on virus prevalence 2 Regular inspection of protected areas for birds . Legislation concerning contact between wild and domestic birds . Distribution of information, particularly to poultry farmers 43. Thirteen Parties reported on efforts to improve the conservation status of African-
Eurasian raptors and owls, with four Parties expressing interest in participation in an MoU. Activities included: installation of nesting boxes; establishment of a raptor sanctuary; monitoring; development of action/management plans; participation in international meetings. Actions on migratory sharks were noted by 14 Parties, seven of whom attended meetings on the development of shark agreement.
OTHER FREQUENTLY REPORTED INFORMATION
Local Communities / Indigenous People
44. Parties frequently referred to the need to include or consider local populations and indigenous people. Australia, Kenya and Norway reported monitoring and controls to ensure sustainable use by local people of natural resources without causing long-term harm to populations. Australia (under the Native Title Act) allows indigenous people continual access to native species for customary purposes. Honduras recognises the need to provide alternative livelihoods for people that rely on the taking of eggs for subsistence.
45. Several Parties state that involving local communities in conservation efforts and mobilising their support through incentives, such as financial rewards and socio-economic improvement, are priorities. This was noted in particular by Kenya, where bats are killed due to beliefs that they are evil, and in Guinea where large terrestrial mammals that devastate crops and livestock are hunted.
46. An example of the use of incentives was provided by Panama, where people who previously sold turtle meat are now paid to protect turtles, thereby making good use of their local knowledge of turtle populations.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
47. By-catch = Use of current mitigation methods. By-catch, particularly marine by-catch, remains, as reported in the 2005 analysis, and as noted in Resolution 8.14, a major threat to marine mammals, marine turtles and seabirds. This is an issue that the CMS should continue to address as a priority and that Parties should be urgently encouraged to adopt mitigation methods for, since the crisis facing the marine species is so acute (see Fig. 1) and mitigation methods have proven to be 100% effective (see 4bi below).
Better Red Listindex of ___m_»
species survival
Worse SS
0.94 + ne - coerce 0.92 ae + + + 0:90: |e Freshwater 0.88 4 |e Terrestrial —+— Marine & coastal 0.86 —— ae ee 084 4 Segoe me ing 0.82 1 0.80 +———— =F — —— — 1988 1992 1996 2000 2004 2008
Year
Fig. 1 Red List indices for birds (www.birdlife.org/actio/science/indicators)
Reporting Information relevant to by-catch, analysed in this report, is reported in: Section I (a) implemented legislation (not analysed in this report); Section II, questions 1.1, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1 (General questions on Appendix I species) and Section X, Resolutions 6.2, 7.2 and 8.14.
Analysis of information reported on by-catch could be improved, and the burden imposed on the reporting officer reduced, if 1) the format encouraged responses on by- catch to be consolidated and made more specific; and 2) actions required under resolutions were listed in the reporting format, for example the actions listed under Resolution 8.14 By-Catch, which call on Parties to:
implement the FAO International Plan of Action (IPOA) for Reducing Incidental Catch of Seabirds in Longline Fisheries
implement the FAO International Plans of Action for management of sharks
implement specific activities if they are also members of relevant Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs)
With the establishment of an online reporting system for the CMS, consideration could be given to harmonising reporting requirements with those of the above FAO Action Plans.
Development of mitigation devices. Parties should be encouraged to report on all developments in by-catch mitigation devices including: acoustic devices (pingers); improved longline-weighting regimes; use of streamer (tori) lines; underwater setting methodology, circle hooks etc.
Observer schemes. EU legislation and that of other Parties requires the implementation of at-sea observer schemes to report by-catch. An essential first step would be for all Parties to report incidental by-catch of CMS listed species in the next national report, to provide the best possible figure for the extent of the problem.
Other bodies such as the RFMOs may implement at-sea observer schemes, but they do not report all by-catch (or, at a minimum, by-catch of CMS listed species). CMS Parties could consider how best to encourage the RFMOs to improve their reporting.
Collaboration Given the magnitude, scope and persistence of the problem of by- catch, the following collaborative actions are suggested:
* Collaboration within the CMS family of Agreements. The ACAP 4th Advisory Committee (AC) Report of the Seabird Bycatch working group, Doc. 14 Rev 1, and the national reports to the AC, for example, provide details of actions of relevance to all Agreements dealing with by-catch. Establishment of a permanent working group to exchange experience and foster coordinated action among the CMS family of Agreements dealing with this problem (including ACAP, ACCOBAMS, ASCOBANS, Marine Turtle IOSEA MoU, Marine Turtles Africa MoU) would help implement good practice, possibly along the lines of the working group on cetaceans established under Res. 8.22.
« By-catch in international waters. CMS Parties are responsible for the protection of migratory species within their national jurisdictional boundaries, but this protection ceases in international waters. Enhanced collaboration with instruments outside the CMS family with mandates that impact by-catch is recommended, particularly those that address this problem in international waters. In addition to the bodies listed in Resolution 8.22 Adverse Human Induced Impact on Cetaceans paragraphs 3f and 4) these should also include the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resource (CCAMLR), UNCLOS and the United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement.
= CCAMLR. CCAMLR reports’ notable success in controlling by-catch (reduction to zero in some instances). CMS Resolution 6.3 requests Parties whose vessels fish within the CCAMLR Convention area to implement its conservation measures. It may be helpful to bring the report to the attention of all CMS Parties particularly those that are not Parties to CCAMLR but that are involved in high-seas fishing, in order to promote the use of these successful management by-catch mitigation methods outside the CCAMLR area. The document also provides suggestions for other actions that the CMS could foster outside the regions under CCAMLR’s jurisdiction.
# RFMOs. The RFMOs should also be encouraged to collaborate with each other and share experiences in avoiding by-catch.
* CBD. Two decisions of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 9" Conference of the Parties (CoP9) potentially relate to the control of by-catch. Decision [X/20 Marine and coastal biodiversity relates to use of by-catch data to identify priority areas for the establishment of marine protected areas. These should have a future positive impact on species currently subject to by-catch, however no mention is made of the need to ensure the current use of mitigation methods already proven to be effective. Decision [X/27 Cooperation among multilateral environmental agreements and other organizations, paragraph 3 urges the Liaison Group of Biodiversity-related Conventions (of which the CMS is a member), to explore options for enhancing synergies, avoid duplication of efforts and improve the coherent implementation of the biodiversity-related conventions, and to meet on a more regular basis. The CMS Secretariat could, via this working group, ensure that control of by-catch, remains high on the agenda in all discussions on marine and coastal biodiversity.
« International-waters Turtle Agreement. Given the common problems faced by marine turtles throughout the high seas, and the various suggestions made by the Parties in relation to further Agreements relating to marine turtles, it may be helpful if
' CCAMLR Report of the Ad Hoc working group on incidental mortality associated with fishing (2007) www.ccamlr.org/pu/e/e_pubs/sr/07/a06.pdf.
the development of a single International-waters Turtle Agreement is considered, to provide a vehicle to address the threats to these species which cannot be tackled through national legislation/action, in parallel to high seas activities implemented by agreements such as ACAP.
Marine traffic
48. The problem of boats colliding with marine mammals is addressed by some countries through legislation that limits the proximity that tourist boats may have with marine mammals and the creation of marine zones with reduced shipping. It may be useful to encourage other Parties to adopt, and enforce comparable legislation.
Electrocution and wind turbines
49. Parties reported various practical methods to attempt to mitigate the effects of bird strike, including burying cables underground and insulating lines. Norway reported the initiation of a major research project on the negative impacts of wind farms. It would useful if the outcome of this research could be presented at CMS CoP10 or circulated via the CMS website.
Marine pollution
50. The effectiveness of legislation banning the use of drift nets, and supporting the use of turtle exclusion devices to reduce mortalities from “ghost” nets (abandoned nets) was noted. Parties lacking such legislation could be encouraged to develop comparable legislation, based on the existing successful models that already exist.
31. Particular problems with entanglement in discarded material were noted. Australia reported the establishment by the government, in 2002, of a Large Whale Disentanglement Network with representatives from all state and territory governments to promote better disentanglement practices through an effective national communications and information- sharing network. The network also aims to identify measures for minimising the occurrence of large whale entanglements. The Australian Government facilitates the network by funding an annual workshop and arranging for participation from local and international experts. CMS Parties could consider inviting Australia to share the lessons learned from this work. CMS Parties could also adopt the CCAMLR practice, requiring Parties to report all lost fishing equipment.
32: CMS Parties could also consider collaborating with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), to ensure better waste management such
as cutting of plastic management bands, to prevent the slow painful death of animals that become entrapped in uncut bands.
Oil pollution
53. | CMS Parties could discuss tactics to control marine oil pollution on all marine species with UNCLOS/UNICPOLOS, building on the work of the Scientific Council proposed programme of work implementing Resolution 8.22.
54. Best practices and lessons learned for all threats reported above, could be shared among Parties through the CMS Information Management System.
Concerted-Action Species
55. Questions in section II of the reporting format, on specific Appendix I species (including concerted-action species) were not included in this analysis thus conclusions based on this information are not provided here. Seven countries did report concerted action in
relation to question X Implementation of Resolution 8.29 and in section VI six countries reported tracking of concerted action species using satellite telemetry (see Satellite Telemetry below).
« Reporting. Future provision of national reports on-line should facilitate the production of automatic compilations of all activities reported by the Parties for each Appendix I and Appendix II species. This could provide the information foundation for the review reports envisaged within the framework of Resolution 3.2, the results of which should be reviewed by the Conference of the Parties, according to Resolution 8.29.
« Collaboration. Collaboration with the OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic may be fostered by CMS Parties, particularly in relation to CMS concerted action species that that are included in the OSPAR list of threatened and/or declining species:
= Puffinus mauretanicus Balearic shearwater =" Caretta caretta Loggerhead turtle =" Dermochelys coriacea Leatherback turtle
* Balaenoptera musculus Blue whale
Satellite telemetry
56. Parties noted the use of satellite telemetry and other remote-tracking devices in monitoring migration, behavioural and dispersion patterns of listed species, and the identification of important areas for conservation management, such as resting/wintering sites, or marine sites in need of protection from impacts of fisheries (e.g. by introducing a closed season or no-take zone, improved observer coverage, enhanced uptake of by-catch mitigation techniques etc.). As an important source of high quality information, it is a key activity in addressing Objective 1 of the CMS Strategic Plan.
Sig Since most countries that do not yet use satellite telemetry or other instrumentation cited lack of financial or technical resources as a constraint, this may be an area where future capacity building and collaboration could usefully be focussed.
Protected areas
58. Habitat fragmentation, pollution and destruction, particularly of wetlands was, as in 2005, cited as an important threat to migratory species, and the establishment of better management of protected areas again frequently reported as an important mitigating action. Almost all Parties reported that migratory species are taken into consideration when establishing protected areas and made frequent reference to the Ramsar Convention and EU Birds and Habitats Directives and Natura2000 sites.
. Existing important sites. Most Parties identified their most important protected sites for migratory species. It may be useful to invite Parties to identify, as a minimum, concerted-action species that occur within each area.
. This should assist in the systematic identification of activity gaps and priority areas in need of concerted action.
. Trans-frontier parks. Few Parties comment on trans-frontier parks. The reporting format could be amended to require Parties to specifically report on the effectiveness or importance of trans-frontier parks and development plans.
13
7 Collaboration with CBD. Little mention is made by Parties of collaboration with the CBD despite the prominence within the CBD of the issue of protected areas. The CBD’s focus on marine protected areas is of particular relevance to CMS. The CBD currently has processes in place to identify protected areas of importance to migratory species. These include the identification of high seas marine protected areas (CBD COP 9 Decision IX/20), based on a range of criteria including the importance for threatened, endangered or declining species. CMS could contribute to this by encouraging Parties to report comprehensively on distribution information on migratory species, from sources including: remote sensing, satellite tracking, historical catch and by- catch data, vessel monitoring system (VMS) data (as listed in Decisions 1X/20, Annex 1).
a Collaboration with the Ramsar Convention. Ramsar CoP10 Doc. 6, lists calls for action to save invaluable wetland areas. Involvement of the CMS Secretariat in supporting these actions, such as implementation of the Hanoi Call to Action on Wetlands. www.aws2008.net/docs/Hanoi-Call-to-Action-on- Wetlands.pdf, and ensuring that migratory species remain high on the agenda of activities to save wetlands, would be helpful. Ramsar CoP10 Doc 6 paragraph 26 also notes that a relational database has been created to store and analyze the information provided by the Parties in their National Reports for COP10. The database includes 66 indicators related to the implementation status of the actions included in Ramsar’s Work Plan 2003-2008, as reflected in the National Reports form. Opportunities to harmonise the analysis of this information to assess actions taken of relevance to migratory species seems desirable.
. Collaboration with MARPOL. MARPOL Resolution A.927 (22) Guidelines for the identification and designation of particularly Sensitive Sea Areas takes into account the importance of the area for migratory species. The CMS Secretariat could consider establishing links with MARPOL to ensure relevant distribution data are available to them.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
59. | The taxonomy followed by the CMS currently lists 12 species of albatross, whereas the taxonomy accepted by ACAP recognises 22 species (19 species included on ACAP Appendix I, plus three northern Atlantic species). BirdLife ((UCN’s Red Listing authorities) follow the ACAP taxonomy and base their Red List assessments on this. Only six names are recognised by both ACAP and CMS, hence identifying the threat status of albatrosses as listed by the CMS is problematic.
60. Harmonising nomenclature appears important in terms of facilitating concerted implementation and information management. It is suggested that, unless there are substantive discrepancies that require further discussion, the CMS adopts the taxonomy of ACAP. In this regard, consideration could be given to inclusion of all species of albatross in the CMS Appendices, to ensure CMS remains in-line with ACAP.
61. Harmonization of nomenclature with CITES is also recommended to facilitate collaboration and exchange of information with that Convention.
Indigenous people/lecal communities
62. The involvement of indigenous people/local communities in the exploitation and/or management of migratory species continues to be identified as a cross-cutting theme in the
14
reports. The CMS could find it helpful to liaise further with the Convention on Biological Diversity working group on Article 8j Traditional Knowledge, Innovations and Practices, to ensure that issues raised and experiences learned under the CBD and CMS are shared in this respect.
National legislation
63. Lack of adequate legislation was noted to be a particular impediment to the implementation of the Convention. Legislation was specifically lacking for turtles and other taxa, mainly sharks. Many Parties reported poor legislation protecting nesting beaches for turtles, particularly in relation to preventing nearby development projects. Simple measure to facilitate the exchange of experiences and access to examples of good legal instruments among Parties within a region may prove productive. Exchange of experiences with other international bodies concerned with the promotion of national legislation for the protection of species (e.g. CITES and its national legislation project) may prove useful.
64. Many developing countries noted having difficulties with the enforcement of legislation particularly in attempts to control poaching. Enforcement is particularly difficult due to lack of awareness of national legislation among local populations. Parties could be encouraged to share examples of effective practice in raising awareness.
Avian Flu
65. Some Parties noted their participation in the Avian Influenza Task Force, and the establishment of the Avian Influenza, Wildlife and the Environment Web (AIWEb) (www.aiweb.info), established in 2006. Belgium (the current funders of ATWEb) noted the need for financial support to maintain the system. Noting the low response of Parties to this issue, the inclusion of specific questions in the reporting format, in addressing this is recommended.
Climate Change
66. Climate change was reported as a general threat by many Parties, but only 13 Parties reported related actions (under Resolution 8.13), and these mostly involved monitoring activities. It may be useful for the CMS to establish links with newly-formed UN Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (UN-REDD Programme), as this programme will have particular relevance to forest-dwelling species.
On-line reporting
67. | The proportion of Parties responding remains relatively low. In 2008, 54 Parties reported, only 50% of the 108 Parties reported by the extended deadline of 31 July 2008, hence this analysis provides a limited view of the status of implementation of the Convention.
68. Completion of the national reports on-line (see Res. 8.24 and Conf. 920), could allow for continuous reporting throughout the inter-sessional period, therefore avoiding the pressure could be created by the current need to prepare reports shortly before the meeting of the Parties. Such a system would also therefore ensure that reports would be included in on-line analyses from the date of submission. It may also encourage more Parties to report. It may be helpful for the Secretariat to ask non-reporting Parties to clarify what factors contribute to their failure to report, or to do so on time.
Reporting format 69. Responses to some open questions tend to be repetitive, with Parties providing minimal and often repetitive responses. This appears to be partly due to the structure of the
reporting format, as its sections are often cross-cutting in nature. At the same time, responses in relation to section X, Implementation of CoP Resolutions and Recommendations are generally fairly brief and do not methodically address the specific activities in each resolution/recommendation that require action by the Parties (see By-catch below, for examples). The on-line report system could be could be developed as follows:
= Move section X Implementation of COP Resolutions and Recommendations to follow on from the administrative details (i.e. location of section II), and
= Formulate specific questions on each activity specified under each resolution and recommendation. This would enable accurate assessment of the status of their implementation.
Comparison with Agreement Reports 70. To further facilitate reporting, it may be helpful for the CMS to:
= omit the requirement to Parties to report on any species that are covered by an Agreement (provided a country is party to that Agreement);
" provide a mechanism to ensure data reported to all Agreements is integrated and searchable (preferably on-line) and subject to analysis; and
= limit questions to reporting on implementation of the Convention (the purpose of the reporting process), rather than to reporting on the status of the population/species (which is currently required for Appendix I species, and might more effectively be sourced from specialist agencies through the CMS IMS).
2008 ANALYSIS: SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Recommendation
1 Ask 15" Meeting of the CMS Scientific Council to consider the species in table 3 suggested in Party reports for future listing on Appendices I and II and to indicate priority species for further research in 2009-11 to COP9 so that resources can be allocated or raised by Parties and the Secretariat
2 Consider (with a view to prioritising) the proposals made in Party reports for the development of new CMS agreements, listed on page 5 of the covering paper 9.10 and discussed on pages 17-19 of the Analysis.
3 CMS to continue to address by-catch as a priority issue and keep it high on the agenda of the Biodiversity Liaison Group.
4 Parties to take note of successful management practices of CCAMLR and adopt its by-catch
mitigation methods.
5 Parties to report all by-catch and encourage RFMOs to improve reporting of by-catch and to establish collaborative mechanisms to share experience in managing by-catch
6 Improve collaboration with other organisations involved with international waters in order to
address by-catch issues and establish a permanent working group among the CMS family of Agreements dealing with by-catch.
7 Consider development of a single International-waters Turtle Agreement. Encourage (eee | Ecoutee development of legislation to minimise impact of marine traffic on marine species.
[oo iimiones Norway to share the outcome of their research on the effects of wind farms on migratory species.
16
15
17 18 19 20
21
Amend CMS Appendices to reflect ACAP nomenclature/taxonomy. Harmonise CMS taxonomy with that of CITES to facilitate collaboration. Liaise with CBD regarding CBD Article 8j to enable sharing of experiences reported to CMS.
25
Collaborate with MARPOL to improve management of waste at sea, particularly packing bands.
Encourage development of legislation regarding fishing net design and use, to minimise threat to migratory species.
Invite Australia to share the lessons learned from its Large Whale Disentanglement Network.
Request CMS Parties to report all lost fishing equipment (following CCAMLR model).
Liaise with UNCLOS/UNICPOLOS regarding control of oil pollution particularly in relation to implementation of Resolution 8.22.
Share information on best practices and lessons learned via CMS IMS.
16 | Enable automatic production of review reports of concerted action species via CMS IMS.
Collaborate with OSPAR on mutual priority species
Encourage capacity building and collaboration in relation to use of satellite telemetry
Support Ramsar Conventions calls for action on wetlands.
Ensure MARPOL have access to CMS species distribution data when designation Sensitive Sea Areas.
Adopt ACAP taxonomy.
Encourage development of adequate CMS-related national legislation, particularly for turtles and sharks.
Facilitate exchange of experience regarding effective management control of poaching. Establish links with UN REDD Programme.
Establish on-line reporting system, harmonised with reporting requirements of other bodies, including FAO Action Plans (related to migratory species).
Implement on-line reporting format to take account of changes recommended in this report. (A draft of the proposed changes has been provided to the Secretariat).
S:\_WorkingDocs\COPs\COP9\Documents\Pre-Session\English\Doc_10_Analysis_& Synthesis_of_NatRep_E.doc
17
ANNEX
Analysis of National Reports to the CMS
2008
Annex I
Prepared and produced by: UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre, Cambridge, UK, on behalf of the Secretariat to the CMS.
eae te
About the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre www.unep-wemce.org
The UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre, based in Cambridge, UK, is the specialist biodiversity information and assessment centre of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), run cooperatively with WCMC 2000, a UK charity. The Centre's mission is to evaluate and highlight the many values of biodiversity and put authoritative biodiversity knowledge at the centre of decision-making. Through the analysis and synthesis of global biodiversity knowledge the Centre provides authoritative, strategic and timely information for conventions, countries, organisations and countries to use in the development and implementation of their policies and decisions.
The UNEP-WCMC provides objective and scientifically rigorous procedures and services. These include ecosystem assessments, support for the implementation of environmental agreements, global and regional biodiversity information, research on threats and impacts, and the development of future scenarios.
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION TO REPORT PARTIES .........sscssssseseseeees paeeneeneee 1 APPENDIX I SPECIES: OVERVIEW. .........ssscseeee eearestecses cosvsuesnereas Son
POTENTIAL NEW SPECIES LISTINGS .............00000 Bececrerceecrecononecco 12 PABPENDIIXGIISTING Si sesssetcesscscstistedscocussscsvscoiveesuresesessnsostssnssatvuscisuaadtcorsshésrsteissetouivias aimee 12 APPENDDIXGI[RISTING Spite mixttwass. ator Me Cotas colts tlie thdoniceccnscsais ibe am. cee 12
DEVELOPMENT OF NEW AGREEMENTS .......ccsccscsscscescssesencesenee 18 BIRD Sisk te cassis trace can tottus Paes Sacer inan Aver na cinta tye eee 18 MARINEIMAMMIALSircrccctesstectsstscsstletssatessescgeteertessotbsstorsstitrtvearstratenssatiucrishineconsosaiteensoreetsaeee 19 MARINE TURTUES 23.2.0 sssuechinristsvatsvessasuenccsncsesvicasttconhinsncstvetssesasaestis tess cysts sec ee ea 19 TERRESTRIAI MAMMALS (OTHER TIRIAN BATS et ancsvetssrcrsenescen eens: ure eee 19 BOATS SorcsssscsssssdspstasetternnseusecessbsesstasssstsssssSotacsa das caegstepicestin-vetcvisiivtstansnssesteneniagae sosts cer meee 20 GER TAWA nc Bacal covet teaesestortiaizaghsoons Sst hitters dattinsmtaatieiaen aie ee eee 20
PROTECTED AREABG............. Dadenernehaesatecenaccacacesscsasecers paersverecansuaeeeeresees@ou
SATELLITE TELEMETRY...........scccccsssssccssscsessseeees Bacsucentscceassetsneserse 21
MOBILISATION OF RESOURCES ........... eacenssncsndecssaceasenssnetess cusaceceseed RESOURCES FOR CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES WITHIN PARTY COUNTRY u..sscsessssssseeseee 26 VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO CMS TRUST FUND w...ssssssssssssssssssessssssssssnssnsunssssssssseseeeee 28 VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO OTHER COUNTRIES ....scsssscsssscssesssssssssssessnnunnesssesecseee 28 TECHNICAL/SCIENTIFIC ASSISTANCE TO DEVELOPING COUNTRIES w.vssssssssssseessssssseseee 28 RECEIPT OF CONTRIBUTIONS FROM CMS TRUST FUND .......ssssssssssssssseseseseseseeeceessennsnnnen 29 RECEIPT OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE/ SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES .....sssssssssss000000 29
CMS RESOLUTIONS oiviccsarsctcccecosescecvexssesteces renneneccae senteecepdeoocoann peor) RES, 6.2 - BY-CATCH AND REC. 7.2 - IMPLEMENTATION OF RES. 6.2 ON BY-CATCH...30 RES, 6.3 - SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE ALBATROSS CONSERVATION. ..cccsssssssssssssssssssssesssesees 30
RES. 7.2 —- IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MIGRATORY SPECIES RES. 7.3 - OIL POLLUTION AND MIGRATORY SPECIES
RES. 7.4 - ELECTROCUTION OF MIGRATORY BIRDS.......cscscscscsssesssscsneseseseerseeeenerseneasseans 31
RES. 7.5 — WIND TURBINES AND MIGRATORY SPECIES.....:cccccssuuesereescsnsretereseesesseees 31 RES. 7.9 - COOPERATION WITH OTHER BODIES AND PROCESSES ......ccsescssieeeeeeeneen 3] RES. 7.15 — FUTURE ACTION ON THE ANTARCTIC MINKE, BRYDE’S AND PYGMY RIGHT WHALES UNDER THE CONVENTION ON MIGRATORY SPECIES veces 32 RES. Gail = SUSTAINABLE USE... ccccc.scssecsesscnssansorscssonsesnossstsccecessatcaturunveseeienssesnuetenceusvenestssiestoreses 32 RES. 8.5 - IMPLEMENTATION OF EXISTING AGREEMENTS AND DEVELOPMENT OF RUTUREVAGREEMENISpartssccsesctstescicsratrsmestscratcrtasiciscieucsrencarettcecstereneneiedrensnnreseneurerecses 32 RES. 8.7 — CONTRIBUTION OF CMS IN ACHIEVING THE 2010 BIODIVERSITY TARGET.....33 RES. 8.9 - REVIEW OF GROMS (GLOBAL REGISTER ON MIGRATORY SPECIES).......:000 33 RES. 8.11 - CO-OPERATION WITH OTHER CONVENTIONS. ....:ccsccecseseseesssesesseeesssereneees 33 RES. 8.13 - CLIMATE CHANGE AND MIGRATORY SPECIES .....c.ccccesteteetesesessseneneneees 33 RIES) Gh 14) ENA ZAI) cococococco;occcactistiedascosnaner:aoqa95%o008060ce007oqqnbRndeooo0 conpacneK copndodonoqucoouosococascnacoGs 33 RES. 8.22 - ADVERSE HUMAN INDUCED IMPACTS ON CETACEANS ....sscrescesesteneeerereees 33 RES. 8.24 - NATIONAL REPORTS FOR THE EIGHTH AND NINTH MEETINGS OF THE GONFERENCEORMEIPARMES mec sateneree ett rts euruevrsrerstoneserssccsseatntutanersccssssesencasmnson® 34 RES. 8.27 - MIGRATORY SPECIES AND HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA......... 34 RES. 8.29 - CONCERTED ACTIONS FOR APPENDIX | SPECIES .....:ccsscsteteseesssesseseneseseees 34 GoNTRIER FESO) LUTIOIN wcososscocoedccneeneconnssoaos ososonoce cosaboenoseces6cond0so0ddebconoidoouccosogocogoxecocuosedeces6c5eqc00 34 CMS RECOMMENDATIONS .........cssssesssessseeeees Banasnesenaessceersneessecss Se) REC. 7.5 - RANGE STATE AGREEMENT FOR DUGONG (DUGONG DUGON) (COINISIEIRAAIITIONN |e: tecccococcea psnénonanaraséeconeceoncs09656c0n6a0 donan cesaonodoqocoroo oodpodoqsouenedoenobeoeCocoecceosesS0C0G000 35 REC. 7.6 — IMPROVING THE CONSERVATION STATUS OF THE LEATHERBACK TURTLE (DERIMIOCRIELYS GOIRVAGIEA sconce ceséno0 codéodenongrenéacesopabecotonaoocoransrrsacthoondode nbbeecosecodocosdcocuosedooecd 35 REC. 8.12 - IMPROVING THE CONSERVATION STATUS OF RAPTORS AND OWLS IN THE /ATARIKCIAIN] FEUIRVASIVAINT TREE(E]LKOIN | ccccoccce occoctedonosaodé6etennan0taaononond eaonabhconodedenasaonoftopanbdooooerononeriononatocs 35 REC, TOS IM SIRYAIIOURA? SIRVANPAKS) Gecscccnconc neconecneaancravaa passennkouanoboneoeobsb sonnsanorosoneconcoposonononoSBcot 35 REC B57’ = MUANRIINTE TURUTLES ceccpoecceccenotaconnsaccenesosataceootioon can pccrbactop cosocnoaononoqgnaconoasenanesaqoo000600 36 REC. 8.28 - COOPERATIVE ACTIONS FOR APPENDIX II SPECIES .....:cccsessssesesssseenesenees 36
@TMERIRECOMMENDATIONS Becececurereccrarerasuesetanrarcostaredeersnecurcrsectstencnstsvontvrrnacsecsetrerstseverertes 36
INTRODUCTION TO REPORT PARTIES
This document summarises the responses received in the 54 CMS National Reports returned to the Secretariat by 31 July 2008. This represents a response rate of 50% (as of 31 July 2008, there were 108 Parties), a slight decrease on the 2005 rate of 51% (47 out of 92 Parties). National Reports in this reporting exercise were provided by Parties from the following regions: Europe (26); Africa (13); Central and South America (9); Asia (3); Oceania (2); and North America and Caribbean (1). Parties reporting by the 2008 deadline are illustrated in Figure 1.
CMS Parties that submitted National Reports
HB soOtther CMS Parties
Figure 1: National Reports included in the 2008 analysis
Thirty-five Parties submitted National Reports in both 2005 and 2008 (Table 1). A total of 17 new Parties have joined the CMS since CoP8 in 2005, including two Parties that now exist in the region of North America and the Caribbean (Antigua and Barbuda, Cuba). Previously no countries were CMS members in this region. The percentage of the Parties that responded from each region in 2005 and 2008 are shown in Table 2.
Table 1: Parties submitting National Reports in 2005 and 2008 by region
2005 and 2008 2005 only
Chad Eritrea Angola* Cote d'Ivoire Mali Burkina Faso Democratic Republic of the Congo Nigeria Liberia Kenya South Africa Maunitius
Africa Morocco
Rep. Congo Rep. Guinea Senegal
Togo
Mongolia Pakistan
Israel Saudi Arabia Sri Lanka Albania Austria Slovakia Cyprus Switzerland France Croatia Ukraine Georgia
Czech Republic Netherlands Denmark Norway
1
Asia
Belarus Belgium
E bli Bulgaria
Region 2005 and 2008 2005 only 2008 only
Finland Poland Germany Serbia*
Hungary Slovenia Italy Spain Latvia Monaco
Former Yugoslavian Republic of Macedonia
Portugal Sweden United Kingdom
North America & : = cae a: oe Rte
Argentina Ecuador Costa Rica* Bolivia Honduras* Central & South Chile Peru
America Panama
Paraguay
Uruguay
Oceania Australia New Zealand
*new Party since CoP8
Table 2: Parties reporting from each region in 2005 and 2008 (%)
Africa Asia Central & South | North America & | Oceania America Caribbean
2005 (%)
2008 (%)
APPENDIX I SPECIES: OVERVIEW
General information provided by Parties regarding species listed in Appendix I is summarised by major taxonomic group: birds, marine mammals, marine turtles, terrestrial mammals (other than bats), bats and other taxa. Parties were asked to report on legislation prohibiting take, obstacles to migration and other major threats, actions to overcome these, limiting factors and any assistance required.
BIRDS
Forty-four Parties (81%) reported to have legal instruments in place prohibiting the taking of birds listed in Appendix I, and of these, ten reported to have granted exceptions. Other instances in which legislation prohibits the taking of birds includes in the Great Barrier Reef Zone (Australia), closed seasons (Chile) and laws prohibiting hunting and disturbance (Latvia, Mongolia, Serbia, Togo). Spain has prohibited the use of lead ammunition when hunting in wetlands. There is no legislation protecting Appendix I bird species in the Former Yugoslavian Republic of Macedonia and Angola, although Angola reports that it is developing legislation on forests, wildlife and protected areas.
Seven of the ten Parties noted that exceptions are granted to prohibitive laws for scientific reasons. In Peru such exceptions must be approved and for conservation reasons. Croatia and Belgium allow exceptions for educational projects, public health and safety, air safety, to prevent economic damage and to protect native species. In Chile both the fishing and farming service can authorise exceptions, and in Germany an exception was made when eggs of Great bustards (Otis tarda) were taken for an ex situ conservation programme.
2
A range of obstacles to migration were identified, iene Wind as illustrated in Figure 2. Forty-nine Parties me sce 6% _ Other, 19% turbines, 24% reported some form of habitat destruction as an rar ‘
obstacle to migration. Habitat destruction was identified as an obstacle by 38 Parties and 11 Poaching Parties also reported habitat fragmentation, change of land use to farming or human disturbance.
Bush fires, 6%
Other obstacles frequently reported include electrocution (23 Parties), pollution (24 Parties), by-catch (15 Parties) and wind turbines (13 Parties). Poaching or illegal hunting was cited by nine parties. Tall mirrored / glass buildings were reported as a problem by Monaco. Bush fires were noted by Togo and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who also reported armed conflict as an obstacle. Climatic events such as droughts were reported by three Parties (Burkina Faso, Chad, Morocco), while Belarus reported a change in natural water levels on floodplains and fen mires. Peru reported that birds are caught for consumption and for pets, flamingos are caught as a sport and the collection of guano from islands disturbs birds in the breeding season.
Figure 2: Percentage of Parties reporting on specificobstacles to bird migration
Various actions to overcome obstacles to migration were reported. Education and/or raising awareness was mentioned by 14 Parties, while new protected areas, particularly wetland / Ramsar sites, have been established by 14 Parties. Environmental impact assessments on wind turbines and power lines have been performed by 12 Parties. Bulgaria has installed safety platforms on power lines for stork nests, and in the Republic of Congo nest boxes are protected better. France, Germany, Hungary and Italy require the burial / insulation of dangerous power lines by utility companies. The implementation of new laws was reported by seven Parties. Australia noted that legislation to prevent by-catch of albatrosses and petrels required the use of lines to scare birds and laying fishing lines at night. Similar methods were also reported by New Zealand. Some fisheries in the United Kingdom were closed to reduce by-catch. Habitat restoration was mentioned by five Parties, and the control of poaching / hunting by three Parties. In Sweden the latter is achieved through increased supervision by the coast guard and the prosecution of violators. Panama is involving the local communities by ensuring that conservation activities they perform benefit their socio-economic development.
Ten Parties reported that they have made progress or been successful in overcoming obstacles to migration through the designation of new protected areas. Four Parties made progress by increasing public awareness, with Chad training specialist eco-guards. Three Parties (Czech Republic, Germany and Spain) have established agreements with utility companies to ensure safe power lines and improve old ones, with Austria marking power lines to make them visible and Portugal installing bird diverters. Georgia has created an environmental inspectorate to stop poaching whilst other Parties have drawn up management plans and improved legislation for species protection.
Financial support was the most commonly reported assistance needed for a range of activities with 18 Parties mentioning it in relation to the need to perform surveys / scientific research, improve staff training or recruit new staff, restore habitats and conduct public awareness campaigns. Technical support, particularly in relation to professional advice and training in recent technologies, was noted by eight Parties. The international exchange of knowledge and common methodologies was called for by five Parties, with India suggesting the sharing
3
of information about successful projects. Germany and Mongolia want Parties to exchange information on new ways to secure high voltage power lines and wind turbines.
The most commonly identified major threat to birds transcending mere obstacles to migration was poaching (25 Parties). Habitat destruction / modification was noted by 14 Parties, while ten Parties identified illegal trade as a major threat. Limited information on migration routes and the distribution of inhabited sites was reported by three Parties. Invasive species were noted as a major threat by Chile and Paraguay, although the particular species were not named, and pesticides were reported as a threat by Guinea. Slovenia reported that the White tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) was threatened by nest disturbance, and Uruguay noted sporadic cases of the capture of the Saffron-cowled blackbird (Xanthopsar flavus) for illegal trade. Hungary reported that the rate of mortality had increased in the last three years due to poisoning.
The main actions taken to prevent / reduce factors that endanger birds included raising awareness, the implementation / revision of legislation and surveying (ten Parties each). The creation of protected areas that encompass migratory species’ habitats was reported by nine Parties, with Chile also establishing buffer zones around its protected areas. Denmark, Germany and Italy have established disturbance-free zones. Croatia has specially trained customs, border and criminal police, and Uruguay increased prosecuting fines. Attempts are being made to eradicate rats in some areas of Italy and of Ruddy ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis) in the United Kingdom. Sweden has allowed the hunting of ruddy ducks all year round to try to prevent hybridisation with the endangered White-headed duck (O. leucocephala). Germany is campaigning to ban the use of lead ammunition in hunting, while forest rangers in Morocco can order the withdrawal of hunters and prevent hunting in public places. Ensuring that water levels remain at a certain level is a priority for Spain in order to maintain its wetland habitats.
Increasing populations of migratory bird species were reported by five Parties as evidence of progress / successful actions. Improved awareness was reported by five Parties, and Kenya reported a reduced number of killings due to this. Improved security for protected areas and increased public participation to help conservation efforts was also noted. Argentina has made progress by recently passing a law that regulates land use changes and manages forests. Slovenia reported successful white-tailed eagle fledglings due to nest protection, while the United Kingdom noted that nearly 5,000 ruddy duck had been shot since 2005. In Uruguay there have been fewer confiscations of the Saffron-cowled blackbird from private holders and markets.
The most commonly reported factor limiting actions was the lack of financial resources (11 Parties), particularly in relation to inadequate technology, monitoring, human resources and training. There is pressure on land use by outdoor recreation groups in Denmark and by development projects in India and Mauritius, limiting the establishment of protected areas. Other limiting factors included poor public awareness and participation, the remoteness of important natural areas (Pakistan), an unstable political situation (Guinea), trapping in the British Sovereign Bases where there is limited legislation (Cyprus) and climate change (Togo). Financial assistance is required by 15 Parties for the purposes of monitoring, habitat protection and, in the case of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia policy development. Technical support was requested by eight Parties, with training and materials also required. Continued international co-operation and information sharing is called for by four Parties.
MARINE MAMMALS
Out of the 37 Parties that responded only Antigua and Barbuda stated that the taking of marine mammals listed under Appendix I was not prohibited. Several Parties noted the relevance of fishing laws and CITES in prohibiting take. Argentina has specific legislation prohibiting the catch of orca (Orcinus orca) in its territorial waters and has declared
4
Sowerby’s whale (Mesoplodon Other, 4% bidens) as national heritage. Spain ae issued a decree in 2007 to protect cetaceans. In those countries Illegal where taking is prohibited by law, hunting, 20%) seven Parties reported that exceptions had been granted mainly for scientific research and in Australia for use by indigenous people.
The greatest obstacles to migration were identified as (Figure 3):
By-catch (23 Parties) Collision with fishing boats or other shipping vessels (22 Parties)
Figure 3: Percentage of Parties reporting obstacles to migration for marine mammals
e Pollution, including acoustic pollution (17 Parties)
e Tllegal hunting (11 Parties)
Italy noted that a loophole in Mediterranean fishing regulations attempts to disguise the use of driftnets by using another name for them. Morocco noted that natural events such as epidemics and collapsing caves were obstacles to migration.
Four Parties identified awareness-raising as an action undertaken to overcome migration obstacles, with Guinea distributing copies of its fishing code to all boats, which states that the catching of marine mammals is forbidden. Costa Rica passed legislation that obliges boats to use fishing devices that allow cetaceans to escape. Croatia has educated tour guides on dolphin-watching boats and Australia has set limits to how close dolphin and whale watchers can approach marine mammals and adopted seismic survey guidelines. Both Italy and Portugal have established schemes to monitor sightings and stranded marine mammals, while Panama has passed legislation relating to sightings, rescues and beaching. Action plans have been implemented for both the manatee Trichechus senegalensis in Cote d'Ivoire and the sustainable harvest of the dugong, Dugong dugon in Australia. Monaco has worked with France and Italy to establish the Pelagos sanctuary for marine mammals.
The most commonly reported progress/successful action taken was the improved awareness of local communities, the fishing industry and ship operators. Australia reported fewer
collisions, successful marine debris clean-up programmes and investigations into the origin of marine debris.
In Togo increased numbers of marine mammals have been released back into the wild. A research centre has been established in Guinea that collects data on marine debris, accidental take and collisions. The United Kingdom carried out a study which concluded that pollution led to suppression of the immune system.
Eleven Parties reported that financial assistance is required to overcome obstacles by the use of better fishing equipment and skills, surveys and developing action plans. Technical assistance is requested by seven Parties and training by six Parties, with Pakistan specifically requiring training in recent technologies such as radio-tracking. The need for information sharing and co-operation with other countries was reported by five Parties, especially in relation to preventing collisions with ships (Australia and New Zealand).
Twenty Parties identified pollution as the major pressure on marine mammals, while 12
Parties mentioned by-catch. Commercial whaling or illegal hunting was described as a major
threat by seven Parties. Collisions with boats and the disruption of natural behaviour from 5
whale watching vessels were reported by several Parties. Acoustic pollution was cited as a problem (France and Croatia), with France explaining that this was mainly caused by military operations. Croatia reported a lack of food for marine mammals, and Peru reported that marine mammals are in competition for food with the fishing industry. Togo noted the poor implementation of existing laws, whilst Australia and Peru predicted that climate change would be a major pressure in the future.
Measures to prevent/reduce/control endangering factors to migration included creating awareness and educating people (seven Parties), with the Cote d’ Ivoire focusing on informing fishermen of the plight of manatees. Croatia developed an educational poster for the Year of the Dolphin in 2007. Revised or new legislation has been implemented by six Parties, which ranged from the development of marine corridors to the imposition of fines. In Kenya security guards are now patrolling coastlines. Several parties have designated new protected areas, with Morocco establishing a non-fishing zone. New Zealand has imposed levies for conservation services on the fishing industry to encourage their participation in conservation. Australia reported the establishment in 2002 of a Large Whale Disentanglement Network, comprising representatives from all state and territory governments. It aims to promote better disentanglement practices and response through an effective national communications and information-sharing network. The network also aims to identify measures for minimising the occurrence of large whale entanglements. The Australian Government facilitates the network by funding an annual workshop and arranging for participation from local and international experts.
Australia is using acoustic pingers to-deter dolphins from becoming caught in gill nets. However the United Kingdom found its pingers unsatisfactory and is now testing louder ones as well as using different nets to reduce by-catch. Costa Rica is using circular fishing hooks, while Peru is monitoring markets for the illegal sale of dolphins. Australia noted that, as a Party to the Kyoto Protocol, it is working to reduce climate change.
In Australia and Portugal progress/successful actions include the development of guidelines on marine mammal watching. By-catch is now reported and has been reduced in three Parties. New Zealand reports that levies are assisting with research and Portugal can now ensure dolphin-friendly tuna. In Morocco, monk seals (Monachus monachus) are benefiting from the designation of zones with fewer shipping vessels, while the Cote d’Ivoire has increased its knowledge of manatees. In Kenya locals now take a keener interest in marine mammals and tourists are attracted by them.
Six Parties identified a lack of financial resources as constraining conservation actions. Angola, Kenya and Togo noted that poverty was a limiting factor. In Honduras no collaborations have been set up with the fishing industry, which poses the greatest threat to manatees. Australia noted difficulties in enforcing legislation and monitoring its large Exclusive Economic Zone. Mauritius, as a small island, is limited by continual coastal development and in Morocco there is no legal jurisdiction to protect monk seals. As regards to assistance needed the most common response was financial help (14 Parties), for measures such as annual population censuses (Honduras) and the creation of surveillance teams (Cote d'Ivoire). The continual need for international co-operation is called for by four Parties. Assistance was also needed for training, materials and human resources
MARINE TURTLES
Thirty-two (59%) of Parties stated that the taking of marine turtles is prohibited by law. Legislation includes the Aquatic Biological Resources Law in Angola, the Barrier Reef Marine Park Zoning Plan that protects six turtle species in Australia and a total ban that exists in one park in the Republic of Congo. Exceptions have been granted by seven Parties, in order to prevent damage, for public health and safety, and for education or research purposes in Croatia and Italy. Turtles or their eggs can be taken for scientific purposes in Peru and France, and the eggs of Olive Ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) can be extracted in
6
accordance with two decrees in Costa Rica. Indigenous people have access in Australia and live captures can be authorised in Chile.
The largest obstacle to migration is by-catch (28 Parties), with pollution, such as nets and ingestion of marine debris, also reported as a major obstacle (19 Parties). Céte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Peru noted that poaching is a problem. Various other obstacles were mentioned including collisions with boats (Italy, Slovenia), injury by motor propellers (Uruguay), tourism (Honduras), illegal fishing gear (Italy, Kenya) and uncontrolled traffic on nesting beaches (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Honduras). Togo noted sand and gravel extraction at nesting beaches, while France and India reported seismic and electromagnetic activities in oil exploration were obstacles to migration.
Education/awareness raising is the principle action being taken to overcome these obstacles (14 Parties). Five Parties are training fishermen and onboard observers in order to diminish by-catch, with Italy promoting artificial baits. New or revised legislation is being implemented by five Parties. Honduras, Italy and Pakistan are using turtle excluder devices (TEDs). Work on new fishing hooks to avoid by-catch is progressing in Chile, Portugal and Spain, while New Zealand is distributing de-hookers to fishermen and France is using circular hooks. Better nets and freeing mechanisms are being developed by four Parties, while Honduras has established closed seasons. Slovenia has produced a turtle handling guide for fishermen. Regulations on marine debris and clean-up programmes are being implemented by four Parties. France is monitoring pollution from heavy metals, pesticides and hydrocarbons. Research in Argentina has found organochlorinated pollutants and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in green turtle (Chelonia mydas) tissue. In Kenya there are beach patrols and similarly Costa Rica is working with police at nesting sites. Italy and New Zealand have rescue and rehabilitation guidelines, and Panama has established rescue centres. France and India are studying how offshore oil exploration may affect migration routes, and Peru is monitoring populations at the genetic level. Australia is ensuring sustainable indigenous use, while Panama is now paying people who used to sell turtle meat to protect the turtles. Spain is reintroducing loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) to the Canary Islands.
Progress/successful actions include raised awareness (seven Parties), the protection of nesting sites (Cyprus, Honduras, Panama) and laying site identification (Guinea, Togo). Chile and Slovenia now free more turtles from fishing lines, and New Zealand noted that attempts at rehabilitation are usually successful. Costa Rica has reduced by-catch by 60-70%. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has cleaner beaches and endorses only organised visits to them. A new visitor centre has been set up in Honduras and a turtle village in Togo. Both Togo and Kenya now receive more reports of washed-up/killed turtles. Networks on turtle conservation have been established in Argentina, Panama and Uruguay, with Argentina also drafting conservation and management plans based on collected scientific information. France reported that seismic/electromagnetic oil exploration ships had not observed any turtles and only low levels of pollution had been recorded on nesting beaches.
Use of shells asa zs,
Fifteen Parties reported that financial assistance was required to overcome obstacles to migration. Technical, training, equipment and expert assistance was also required. France needs support to make exclusion devices obligatory and for effective cross- border management. Panama also wants to enforce the use of TEDs and, along with Honduras, needs more boat inspections. Kenya requested help in lobbying to reduce or ban the use of plastic bags. Peru requires assistance in studying genetics, toxicology and irradiation, and for research into new
7
By-catch, 19%
Figure 4: Percentage of Parties reporting major threats to marine turtles
technology, such as telemetry. Construction of a pool in the turtle village and support for fishermen to mend nets damaged by turtles is needed in Togo.
The major pressures on marine turtles are the destruction of nesting beaches (11 Parties), by- catch (ten Parties), predation of eggs (nine Parties) and collection of eggs (nine Parties), illustrated in Figure 4.
Angola, Honduras, Kenya, Panama and the Republic of Congo noted poaching for the consumption of eggs and meat, and turtle shells are used for art in Honduras and Panama. In Australia indigenous people harvest turtles. Stray dogs predate turtles and eggs in Angola and France, and in Australia rats and feral pigs consume eggs, with pigs also causing habitat degradation, competition and disease transmission. Habitat degradation by human development or tourism is a major pressure in five countries. In Togo sand and gravel extraction are destroying nesting beaches, while human activity is disturbing potential and effective nesting sites in Italy. Chile expressed concern about entanglement in fishing lines.
Improving awareness is the main action being taken to prevent, reduce and control endangering factors (13 Parties). Eight Parties are undertaking surveillance and new/strengthened legislation has been developed by three Parties, including in Australia where all six species are now protected. Argentina, Australia and Peru have developed relationships with fisheries to reduce their impact on turtles. In Australia, Honduras and India the use of TEDs is mandatory. Cages are placed around eggs underground in Cyprus. Croatia is sampling stranded animals and identifying critical winter sites, and Mauritius is restoring habitats. Honduras reported that it has implemented a closed season on the sale of eggs, and Costa Rica now prohibits the extraction of eggs. In France the police protect beaches, which are examined every 15 days, and fishing gear that reduce by-catch are promoted. Australia is researching the effect of temperature on eggs, drafting a code of conduct for tourists, involving indigenous people in conservation, reducing the risks posed by shark control nets, and removing feral pigs and dogs. Peru is also controlling predation by dogs.
Raised awareness was reported by six Parties as progress/successful actions. Intervention in poaching has been successful in Céte d’Ivoire and France, while the hunting of female turtles in the Republic of Congo has diminished by 10-30%. Chile has identified a hook that reduces by-catch and in Argentina two important feeding sites have been identified and the local community has become involved. Harsher laws have been drafted in Togo, and the Netherlands has brought illegal sand mining to the attention of authorities and increased patrols. Uruguay has designated marine areas and reduced the illegal trade in turtle shells and meat.
Factors limiting actions are identified as lack of finance (11 Parties), poverty (Angola, Kenya), poor training, lack of personnel, inadequate technical equipment and lack of materials. Argentina mentions that its limited finances hinder the making of agreements with fisheries and co-ordination between states. Links with the local community and stakeholders are lacking in Honduras and Italy respectively. A weak legal framework exists in Guinea and Peru has legal loopholes. The Republic of Congo reported it has inadequate surveillance camps at nesting beaches and low public awareness due to economic reasons. Similarly there is limited policing of beaches in France, while Pakistan’s areas are remote.
Financial assistance is required by 15 Parties. The need for technical help, training, equipment, exchange of knowledge and international co-ordination are also reported. Argentina requests help from other countries on hook solutions to reduce by-catch. France also requires co-operation with neighbouring countries to prevent illegal fishing, increase protected areas and restore beaches. Both Kenya and Honduras ask for funds to provide alternative livelihoods for fishermen. Peru mentioned the need for aid for legal reforms and Togo needs support to organise meetings on turtle conservation for politicians.
TERRESTRIAL MAMMALS (OTHER THAN BATS)
Eighteen Parties stated that the taking of terrestrial mammals (other than bats) is prohibited by national legislation. Four Parties noted exceptions to this legislation for scientific reasons and additionally Chile allows take to control damage to property or if individuals need to be raised in captivity. In Bolivia local communities are in charge of a national conservation plan for the vicuna (Vicugna vicugna) and they are the only people granted access to this species.
The main obstacle to migration was habitat fragmentation (15 Parties), with poaching, man- made barriers, a lack of information and trans-boundary management each reported by ten or more Parties. Argentina reported a lack of large migratory areas between countries in South America and a lack of knowledge about migration routes.
Human development was stated by Insufficient Other, 9% __
three Parties as hindering migration, in relation to the human occupation of migratory corridors in Burkina Faso and forest exploitation in the Republic
legislation, 11% —__
By-catch, 7%
Human development,
of Congo. A number of Parties also 6% reported by-catch, insufficient legislation, lack of communication between range states, climate change and drought as obstacles, as illustrated in Figure 5. Poor
communicatiol between Range
Poaching, 22%
Actions being taken to overcome these
Poor trans-
obstacles included improving States, 17% boundary awareness about migration routes management, 1 (seven Parties). Studies on population 9%
sizes and migration monitoring are Argentina, C6te d’Ivoire and the to migration for terrestrial mammals Republic of Congo are working with
other countries to establish trans-boundary parks and to ensure migration corridors link up to national parks. Mongolia has allocated a budget for law enforcement, is issuing penalties for poachers and has, along with Chad and the Republic of Congo, increased poaching surveillance. Kenya is leasing land especially to allow migration to feeding and breeding sites. Pakistan has become a conservation partner in the Snow Leopard Survival Strategy and is mapping the leopard's range. Morocco is assisting with the Sahelo-Saharan antelope programme by transfers of addax (Addax nasomaculatus) and gazelles and the establishment of national reserves for antelopes.
Four Parties identified the mapping of migration routes as progress/successful actions, using collars to track snow leopards (Uncia uncia) in Pakistan and elephants in the Republic of Congo. Liberia has only achieved partial/quick assessments of migration routes so far. Mongolia reported that it has raised awareness of poaching and has managed to reduce it. The Cote d'Ivoire has also reduced hunting and Bolivia has put agreements in place to prevent poaching. Angola noted the return of migratory mammals to its country from Botswana and Zimbabwe, while Morocco transferred addax and gazelles to more national parks. Financial assistance is needed by ten Parties and several Parties also reported needing technical equipment or training. Bolivia requested the further dissemination of information about CMS, while the Republic of Congo needs support for its anti-poaching programme.
The majority of Parties that responded (15 out of 21) stated that habitat fragmentation was a major threat to terrestrial mammals. After that, the greatest threats were reported as poaching, lack of information, illegal trade and insufficient legislation. The use of mammals for bush meat is a major threat in Kenya. Armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a
9
significant problem and in Monaco urbanisation is a threat to terrestrial mammals. Mongolia and Guinea identified climate change and desertification as threats.
Awareness-raising through education and involvement was reported by six Parties as an action to reduce/control endangering factors. Kenya noted that it has established partnerships with landowners and developed beneficial activities to encourage conservation. Additionally it has developed intensive breeding programmes for species that are isolated or have small population sizes. In case war breaks out the Democratic Republic of the Congo has measures for evacuation and relocation of large terrestrial mammals. Other efforts reported include surveillance, particularly anti-poaching patrols, and the creation of protected areas and legislation.
Angola reported the establishment of two trans-frontier parks as progress/successful actions, and the Republic of Congo noted that it found species easier to manage within protected areas. In Guinea locals are beginning to tolerate large mammals in and around protected areas. Intensive management programmes have been implemented for Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi) and the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) in Kenya and therefore awareness of these species has increased. Bolivia has published material on mammal species to try to prevent poaching and their use in cultural activities. Pakistan has seen an increase in the number of snow leopards, while the Cote d’ Ivoire has reduced illegal hunting.
Lack of finances is the most reported limiting factor (six Parties), with some Parties attributing this to poverty (Mongolia) and others to armed warfare (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia) or an unstable political situation (C6te d’Ivoire, Guinea). Chad noted a lack of respect for and knowledge of legislation, and the Republic of Congo reported that some authorities still allow trafficking and poaching. In Kenya the increasing development of land is not compatible with the conservation of migratory species. Mongolia noted desertification as limiting. Financial assistance is required by 12 Parties, whilst others ask for technical assistance, equipment and training on how to monitor mammals, and human resources. Argentina reported that no funds are allocated for meetings and fieldwork with other countries, although this is not a top priority. Bolivia requested that the CMS provides information that can be distributed within the country.
BATS
The taking of bats is prohibited by national law in 15 countries. Although bats are not currently protected by legislation in Guinea, this is being updated. Out of the countries that reported that taking is prohibited by law, four Parties noted exceptions to this are permitted for mainly scientific reasons, although in Chile bats can also be taken to control their populations, to establish farms and for sustainable use.
Vandalism of bat caves (six Parties) and habitat destruction (five Parties) were the most frequently reported as obstacles to migration. Human consumption is an obstacle in Angola and Guinea, while in Kenya bats are killed because of a traditional belief that they are evil. Guinea noted that high voltage electric cables are problematic, and in Cyprus shouting disturbs bats. To overcome these obstacles Belgium, through the EU LIFE project “Bat Action”, is restoring sites that hold many wintering bats. Six Parties are raising awareness through education, especially in Kenya so that bats are not deemed as evil. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is adopting a forest code and Liberia is drafting new legislation. Financial assistance is required by ten Parties and technical assistance by 6, with Bolivia requesting specialised bat training. Guinea needs assistance to update its legislation.
Habitat fragmentation and loss is the greatest threat to bats (15 Parties), while poaching is a problem in Angola and the Cote d’Ivoire. Monaco notes that nearly all bat territories are in urban areas. Actions to control / prevent these factors include awareness raising by seven Parties. In Monaco specific consultations are being undertaken on how to preserve natural caves in cliffs and valleys, and Belgium is ensuring sufficient wintering sites by creating and restoring caves. Kenya reported that it is now protecting caves within protected areas, while
10
Paraguay has a law to prohibit deforestation. In Burkina Faso hunting has been banned at sites where bats are concentrated. Four Parties reported that awareness-raising has been successful, and in Céte d’Ivoire this has led to a reduction in poaching. In Paraguay the rate of deforestation rapidly slowed and reforestation plans are being discussed. Kenya reported that the establishment of protected areas means that good bat habitats have been maintained, and in Belgium “Bat Action” is well underway.
Factors limiting actions include lack of funds or poverty (Angola, Bolivia, Céte d’ Ivoire, Honduras and Liberia). Burkina Faso is limited by a lack of bat species identification skills and Kenya has a lack of bat knowledge. Cyprus suspects that there are unknown areas and caves where bats reside. In Paraguay people lacking a conscience and black markets are problematic. Financial help is the most frequently reported assistance needed (seven Parties), specifically for an inventory of bats in Cote d’Ivoire. Several Parties also require technical help or equipment.
OTHER TAXA
Eighteen Parties reported that other Appendix I taxa are the responsibility of a Ministry / agency, most of which are concerned with the environment, agriculture or fishing. Of the 18, 13 Parties reported that the taking of other taxa is prohibited by legislation. New Zealand stated that basking sharks (Cetorhinus maximus) are prohibited as a target species but, under commercial fishing regulations, they may be landed as by-catch. In the United Kingdom great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) are not protected by any legislation. Exceptions to legal prohibitions on take are permitted in Croatia in order to protect native species, control damage, and for reasons of health and safety. In New Zealand the taking of sharks as by- catch is not an offence as long as it is reported quickly and accurately. Exceptions are permitted in Bolivia for approved sustainable use and in Guinea for scientific reasons.
Obstacles to migration for other taxa include a lack of legislation (seven Parties), marine debris particularly ghost nets (Australia), climatic events (Chad), degradation of plant foods and their habitats (Guinea), fishing (Chile) and lack of knowledge (Kenya and Bolivia). In Germany sturgeons are caught as by-catch in fishing gear, and are affected by dams for hydroelectric power and river modification. To overcome such obstacles Germany is creating fish corridors and has launched a campaign to encourage fisheries to minimise and report by- catch. Australia is initiating clean-up programmes and investigating the source of debris. Other Parties are carrying out research on behaviour and populations levels, developing laws and education initiatives. Some of these actions have been successful as a result of some shark species being listed by CITES, the monitoring of reptiles and large marine mammals (Kenya), and the reintroduction of the European sea sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) in Germany. Specific assistance needed includes observation boats (Costa Rica), specialised human resources to update the legal framework (Guinea), support to develop species database (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and support to monitor difficult marine systems and species in them (Kenya).
The major threats to other taxa are reported as being by-catch and uncontrolled fishing (four Parties), including threats to European sea sturgeon in Germany and to an unknown number of sharks in New Zealand. The Democratic Republic of the Congo reported mining and forestry as threats, and India mentioned climate change and habitat deterioration. Actions taken to reduce / control such threats include the introduction of new legislation, for example in New Zealand great white sharks are now completely protected and bans on certain nets protect Maui’s dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori maui), basking and great white sharks. In Norway by-catch is released and similarly in Germany close co-operation with fishermen means that by-catch is reported. Other Parties have carried out training and education, with Kenya supervising village communities. In Costa Rica one fishing regulation requires the whole shark to be landed, not just part of it, in order to minimise distress. Lack of legislation and controls leading to species exploitation were identified as limiting actions by Chad and Costa Rica. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo a lack of alternative livelihoods to
11
forestry and mining hinder conservation actions. In Germany missing or unsuitable fish corridors and water retention due to dams alters historical sturgeon spawning and breeding sites. The assistance required by Germany relates to improving river ecology and international co-operation on river protection conventions. Other Parties asked for finance, equipment or legal support.
POTENTIAL NEW SPECIES LISTINGS
APPENDIX I LISTINGS
Seventeen of 54 Parties (31%) reporting indicated that they were Range States for 34 migratory species that have an unfavourable conservation status but are not currently listed in Appendix I, with 11 species already listed in Appendix II. Only the red knot (Calidris canutus rufa) proposed by Panama is already listed under Appendix I. Details of these species are provided in Table 3, including any steps taken to propose the listing and assistance needed. Australia, Guinea and Peru did not identify species to be listed, although they stated that they intend to propose species for listings shortly. Similarly Liberia noted that an assessment of species for inclusion would commence soon.
Five of the Parties provided information to indicate that they were taking steps to propose the listing in Appendix I of four species in total, with Italy, Peru and Togo planning to raise their proposals at CoP9. Several Parties indicated they would require some assistance to initiate the listing of species, including support from other Range States (Angola, Bolivia, Peru, Togo), gathering more information on species numbers (Bolivia, Honduras), determining the causes of population declines (Panama), and financial assistance (Costa Rica, Guinea, Liberia, Panama). However Guinea and Liberia did not propose any species to be listed.
APPENDIX II LISTINGS
Seventeen of the 54 reporting Parties listed their countries as Range States for species that have an unfavourable conservation status but are not currently listed in Appendix II and could benefit from the conclusion of an Agreement for their conservation. Details of 47 species that 17 Parties think should be provided in Appendix II are listed in Table 4, although six are already listed in Appendix II, as well as any steps taken to propose listing and assistance required.
Liberia and Panama are undertaking assessments to determine whether any species should be proposed for listing in Appendix II, whilst Angola and Costa Rica did not specify the species they propose for inclusion. France noted their confusion in determining which passerines are already listed because of changing taxonomy, and reported that many passerines in Western Europe have a poor conservation status. Honduras reported that is has important areas of pine forest in South America, which is the habitat of the golden-cheeked warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia), considered endangered by the IUCN. Hungary noted three bird species which should be listed because they are becoming endangered due to increased hunting in south- eastern European countries. In Poland the Baltic Sea population of the ringed seal (Pusa hispida) is proposed for listing due to the threat of climate change.
Six of the Parties proposing specific additions to Appendix II indicated that they were taking steps to propose the listing of ten species overall. Hungary plans to propose its listings at the next CMS Scientific Council meeting, and Angola is notifying the Scientific Council and Secretariat. Those Parties not proposing new species to be listed included Liberia, which stated that serious work on conservation and wildlife management is expected to begin now the country has moved from conflict to recovery, and Guinea which stated that proposals will be submitted in the next five years to request legal support. Costa Rica and Liberia also asked for financial assistance in the form of financial support.
o6o| wold |osodoid eu ioddns oj seiod Buyoosuo0d JeuZO WO’ oOddns UOHODJSju! ‘PSpNquysip saloads aJayM seLJUNCO Ul BDUBLeAxXe ‘saloeds si} JNOGD UO!LFOUWOJU|
el
OU! JO | xIpUeddy ul UOIsN|OU! JO} UOlLIsSOdoid jo UuD|d JO UOISsILUqNS :soA jJuDYdeje UDO ulydjop
DIAIIOg JOA UOZDWIY
#OUDOIIJIO DJUOPOXOT
.SISUBIJOOB Du
UOHODJSJU! ‘PE|NQuIsIp saloeds a8YM SaLJUNOD U] BOUBHEAXe ‘salads SIU} JNOGD UO|OUJOJU]
ulydjop
DIAIIOg JOA UDIAIOg
.SISUBIAJO DIU]
jUaWdinbe puD seoinose! UDWUNY JO JEqQUUNU J8}DE16 D SASIYOD O} djay d!WIOUDDA
eleyudsiwey UISULON JO splg JOUULUIYS UDI
saloads pup sua}sAsooe JO UOYOSEJOId Su JOJ UOHOISIB97 ‘soa
pAuey
JO SESNDD ayOHyseAutl Ajjny Of diay jolounoul4 JO SASNDD SOHysaAut Ajjny Of doy jolouDUl4 JO SOSNDD SOHILSSAu! Aljny Of Ajay jOIOUDUI4
DUIDUDd J@D0AD UDDHeWIy
"ewoued | _uepI66 uoayeuy
-puoues | meuno pena Buor
AjO} eoun!4
JO} jOSOdoid D Buuodaid s| Ajo} :seA SININA UDYAABA
yuDwuUeq ‘eouD!4 ally por
VOVANWVIN
¢ ,SUJSOADY. SAOYDUA?
DISONAINDEQ DOJUJLUOP SIJOJANId SNUDOTELUD SN|UBWINN)
#SMe{AOUdIEd uolydoay
SNAIILU SNAIIN.
OWUUSq {MPO pelloj-yO0Ig
SOLU] DSOLUIT
UODDID} PE}OO} pea
@SNUIOASEA OD/D4
*Q0UDI4 MIDUUUEG ODIO UOD
XO XOID
AjO4| '@OuDI4 J9|[01 UDedoing
esninuioB sojopsloD
UOHODIALU! ‘PEJNqusip saloeds a1ayM sOLJUNOD U] BOUELEAXe ‘salads SIU} JNOGD UOHJOWLOJU]
DIAIIOg J9491|} UD@PUY
,Djozjdns sejaojoD
JO SASNDS ajOBHyseAu! Ajny Of djay jolouDUI4
DWDUDd fou pee
yOJnI sn{nUDO sUPI|OD
a|6pe
AUDUWES peyods Jesse]
puLUDWOd oDjInbYy
DAuey JONP PSlllIG-MOlleA
¢,a{D/NPUN sou
pAuey, YONP YODIG UDSUW
¢,0sIDds sou\Yy
pAuey ONP Paliig-Ped
,PYDUAYOIYJAIe soUYy
pAuey ymoysob Udo
~ONYODS JOADOV
poalinba eoupyjsissy
SWDN UOWLUOD
Buysi| esodoid oj sdajs
| Xipuaddy sy ul Sunst 10) pasodoad exe}
SWDN IHUSIOS
MAN 2€ IIGBL
tl
6dOD 1 Bunst] 10} pasodoid Ajjeurs0J satoadg #
II Xtpuoddy sapun paysty Apearye satoads
] xtpuaddy sapun payst, Aprarye sarsads y
II pure | saoipuaddy yjoq ut Sunsty 10} pasodoad sarsadg y
pup|oez MeN ysyBop Auids .SDIYJUDDD snjonbs
pupjpez Men PU_S YJOO}|}OUWUS .XO18J sIASDJUOPE puowezmen | efoeaiog | __—_ su BUNET|
PUDIDEZ MeN yJIDYS OFDW UlJ-OUS .SNYOUUAXO SNuNs| puD|DEez MeN yupus edo} .sne|0B snujyiogjo5 JO suo|LOINdod AUDWW MOY SUILJEJEp O} seIpNjs SDINPUOH UJOIOS OUD plpfoy) snjeydeuldz
PUD|DEZ MeN yous Axsnq .SMUNISQO sNUIYIOYOIOD
JUS ,snuowj6uo| puDjpezZ MeN CiHoplUM SIUDSDO SNUIYJOYOIOD PuD|DeZ MeN Jeusoiu} eAebig <SNSOJDIEANS soidoj\y
Se $1951
dOD Bulwooypo} o6o] Woy |pDsodoid eu OU} 4D | xIDUSddy U! UOISN|OU! 9o}DUDLW # esisuajoBeues oddns 0} saipiod Buljoosjuod JauJO WO YOddns | 10} UOl{Isodojd Jo UDI JO UOISsIWUQNS ‘seA UDO ISOM SsNYDeyo]
DOID SO|DEds UI SSID JO UO!OSIIGO/\ uludjop euewA\> #,SUBWA/D DJEUEIS
ulydjop peyooqduuny DOID Saldeds UI! SSID, JO UOHOSIIGO/\ SIJUDIY # @,//ZSNO} DSNOS UOHODIOJU! ‘PELNquIsIp saloeds a19YM SOLJUNOD Ul] BOUBHAAX9 ‘saldeds SIU} JNOGD UO|OUNOJU] DIAIIOg inBnod JOJODUOD DWN
(uo}}Ojndod Das I}IDg) AUDUWES @s|Odiod InNOqJOH ¢0Uue0D0Yyd DUBOD0Ud
paiinbeai eoupysissy Burst] esodoid 0} sdajs e@wDN uowlwo> @WDN DyWUeIDS
SI
Bunaouw plounog syMUaINg SPIO 1xaU Ie ssuNsT] asodoid 0} suryd 1o]IouNno|D dIyMUAaING :s9X
RIUDAOTS
Bunjaoul plounog syMUAaINS SAID IXau Je sBuNsT] asodod 0} sueyd ropfiounod o1yWUAIDS :saq
MOINS UPRISING
ye] eIpuryed
AIE[POO AA
pionbav sniuauny
papunjoo vydXiozounjapy
DAOGAD DIN|INT
ON
soyys ouLasseg
ON
RIUBAOTS ‘due
ayuys Aoid Jossa]
‘dds smun7
AOUNU SNIUDT
ON
ON
puelod PIUDAOTS ‘API
|Mo Aw3Ad uriseing
wunutasspd wnipionvjy
Sunung uojouo
pupjnjsoy Dz1daquUey
satoads sty) yoajo1d 0) SAO JO SUAWIIIITP. ysI[qrisa uURD OS SID ay} Jo wed aq UOTBal ay] Ul SALUNOD JaYI0 Jey] UOTOWOIg
ON
seinpuoyy
Ja[qiem payaayo-uaploH
piundoskayo vo104puaq:
ON
vIATOg
Joyo ueopuy
,2joaidna saidvjo)
ON
Ayeay
W190) PaloystyM
snpugdy spiuopyyyd
SIND JO UONUaNe 0} 1Y8N0Ig aq P[Nnos sBunsl] Mau dOJaq popaau UOHeUIPIOOS 14
PastAol Sutaq s}st] Pol :ON
pue[od
Aueuliay
[Mo parea-1104§
plounog synUatog SIO Ixau We ssuNsty asodoid 0} surjd 10j]1I9unoD IYNUAaTNG ‘sax
Aresuny
ON
PRIUDAOTS
yidid moprayy
snauuDyf oy
sisuajpid snyluy
yidid Aumey,
suujsaduip) snyjuy
pours 3unst] Joy sjesodoid dojaaap 0) suotssnosip :saX
YONP PITTEG-MOTPA
¢,aipjnpun spuy
pouejs 3unsty] Joy sesodoid dojaaap 0) suorssnosip ‘sai
yonp yorq ues
o,psands spuy
paure)s 3unsty Joy sjesodoid dojaaap 0} suotssnostp :s3.4
onp partiq-Para
@ pyoudysosyiM1a spuy
plounog syNuatIag SPO Ixau ye sSunsty asodoad 0) suryd so[[Iounogd s1yNUaINg :saq
yre[AAS
SISUAAAD ppnv} i
ON
[Mo [Ra0g
snasaunf snyosay
pasmbas aauejsissy
poueys Sunst] IoJ spesodoid dojanap 0} SUOTSSNOSIP :S9X
ymvysos urouyy
@ 41y 90] dandy
Suyst asodo.id 0) sdajg
I] Xipuaddy SINO ul sunsty 105 pasodo.id exe) Mau pf afqe
aWeN IHUINS
oI
puvyeaz Man
puvyeoz Mon
yreys adoy,
yreys Aysnqg
puvyeaz Mon, puvyeaz Man
uonnqinstp JO wore JO JOAQ] [eUONLU Iv SuIpULIsIopuy
JR1Ie}9.199¢ pure jlounog syMuUatog SutAynou :soX
rjosuy
yreys dyaqrym o1uva09
yrieys Jaysary) adosig
Snaps snuiysoajvH
4 SMANISGO SNUIYADYIADD
enum s Uo] SNUIYADYIADD
,Snsoipiosadns svidojy
urydjop suew AD
soIpms dWUAIS SoX
Surpun.y
[esoueg PIjOsuop
urydjop poyseqduiny snuepy
Jaapulay
SHOSId auaud}o Dyjauals
$,lzsnal vsnog
PIATOg
Iesnop
snpuviv] safisuny
4O]OIUOI DUN
wue}aI99S SLVAOUNA Aq ssasoid oanensturupe jo uonroytduig
Array
yeue}9199§ SLVAOUNA Aq ssaooid aatenstunupe Jo uoneoytdwig
ywuejaI99§ SLVEOUNA Aq ssaooid aanensiurupe jo uoneoyrduig
ywrieje19ag SLVAOUNA Aq ssasoid aanenstunupe jo uonroytpdwig
suipun
ywuea199§ SLVGOUNA Aq ssaooid aanensturupe jo uonroyrpdwig
suipuny
PIOsuO|,
yeq parea-Suoy uviuipres yeq pareo-suo] auidyy
yeq a]Janstdid ouvsidog
yeq ayfansidid uowwo0d
(uonejndod tag onyeg) [eas pasury
daays prranyiedry
SNPADS SNIJOIa|q SUD]INGOLIDUL SNJOIA]q snapustd snjjassidig
snyjaaisidid snqjasisidig
ppidsiy v204d
UOUIUD SIAC
Aye ay BIATIOR BIATO’
PIOsuo|,
Jeq porea-asnow s,u9}]2,7 urydjop Jacl uozeury
urydyop saat uelAljog
snoiund suoKw ,Ssuasffoas piuy
SISuaraljoq DIUy
xaq] ‘dds pudvp VITVNINVA [Mo Aals yearn
JOUIUITYS ULOLyy
SISUIJDAN XLS
psojngau X1UIS
parie)s 3unsiy Joy sfesodoid doyaaap 0} suotssnosip :sa Xx
@ Stason sdoyoucy
SW JO uonuaye 07 1YsN0Ig aq Pjnos
SBuNSI] MAU J10Jaq papaau UOT}eUIPIOOS VY Pastaad Sutaq s}st] par :ON spiiq Surysiag (paytoadsun) sawojiiasseg
paimbas aauejsissy suyst asodo.ad 03 sdajg (ystjsugq) suey] WoUTUTOD AUIBN IHUWIIS
LI
puryeazZ Man
paambas aouejsissy
suns asodo.ad 0} sdayg
purleaZ MaN
puryeaz Man
puryraZ MeN
6dOO I Sunst 10; pasodosd Ajpeursoy sarsadg 4
I] Xtpuaddy sapun paisty Aprasye saisadg @
[J pur | saorpuaddy tog ur Sunsty 10} pasodoad saisadg y
ysydop Aurdg
#, SDlylupon snjonbs
yleys 19d pues yoo);ewWg
_xosaf sidsmuopo
ajsvaqiog
yaeys oyeW Uy-LOYS
(ystjsuq) suey UoWTUIOD
#. SNSDU DULUDT # SNYIUIAAXO SNANST] ‘. :
aweN IHUIIS
DEVELOPMENT OF NEW AGREEMENTS
The contribution of Agreements and Memorandums of Understanding are crucial in achieving the CMS Strategic Plan targets and unifying Parties in the conservation and management of migratory species. Ten new agreements have been developed by the CMS since 2005, as well as an agreement that there should be a new CMS instrument for migratory sharks. National Reports requested information on the initiation, participation and future development of agreements as summarised by the principal animal groups below and illustrated in Figure 6.
Si | @Inititaion : | @ Participation
Number of Parties
as Future plans
Birds Marine Marine Terrestrial Bats Other taxa mammals turtles mammals
Figure 6: Number of Parties initiating, participating or planning future agreements by the main animal groups
BIRDS
Three Parties reported initiating new CMS agreements relating to birds, including proposals by Peru for the conservation of Puna/James’ flamingo (Phoenicopterus jamesi) and Andean flamingo (P. andinus), the United Kingdom in relation to the conservation of birds of prey and owls in the African-Eurasian region, and Uruguay for the conservation of migratory birds species of South American grass pastures and their habitats, illustrated by Figure 7.
Sixteen Parties reported actions in relation to participation in the development of new CMS agreements, 15 of which participated in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on African-Eurasian raptors and owls. In addition Germany has participated in the development of the Central Asian Flyway (CAF) Action Plan to Conserve Migratory Waterbirds and their Habitats. Uruguay is involved with the conservation of grassland bird species in South America. In order to initiate / participate in the development of new agreements, assistance was required in the form of expertise from the AEWA Secretariat (Germany), finances to determine the population statuses of species (Honduras) and technical and financial help (Liberia).
Nine Parties are planning the development of CMS agreements in the future. Bolivia and
Liberia are undertaking studies on biodiversity to support better decision-making in the
future. Guinea wants an agreement on the Caribbean flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber), and
Peru is planning an agreement with Ecuador to conserve the grey-cheeked parakeet
(Brotogeris pyrrhopterus). Costa Rica plans to work with both Honduras and Panama in the
future. The United Kingdom is continuing with its proposal for a MoU on African-Eurasian 18
migratory raptors, while Poland is considering joining the agreement on African-Eurasian migratory waterbirds and Hungary is proposing an MoU for European grassland passerines. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is planning agreements on herons, storks, osprey, pheasants and partridges, rails, stone curlews, bee-eaters and rollers.
MARINE MAMMALS
Two Parties reported activities in relation to the initiation of new agreements: Australia and India have initiated a MoU on the dugong and Australia has also initiated a MoU to conserve cetaceans and their habitats in Pacific Islands. Twelve Parties have participated in the development of new agreements including the dugong MoU (Australia, France, Pakistan), Pacific cetaceans MoU (Australia, France, New Zealand) and a MoU to safeguard the monk seal (Morocco, Portugal). Liberia, the Netherlands and Portugal participated in the Western African Talks on Cetaceans and their Habitats (WATCH). Peru is working on a strategy to conserve the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the South Pacific. Germany ratified the enlargement of the range for ASCOBANS.
Six Parties noted the need for assistance, including financial and technical help (Liberia) and financial help for negotiations on manatees and sirenians (Monaco). Morocco requires support to implement the monk seal MoU, and Pakistan needs assistance to confirm and assess dugong populations. Guinea requires legal support, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo needs support for workshops and CMS expertise. Regarding iuture plans, five Parties are planning new agreements. These include Costa Rica, Cyprus and Liberia on an agreement / MoU on marine mammals, which depend on survey outcomes, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) and hippopotamus.
MARINE TURTLES
Two Parties reported activities to initiate new agreements, namely Kenya, which has agreed and completed a MoU, and Australia, which is gauging interest from other Pacific countries about concluding a marine turtle conservation agreement. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya and Liberia have participated in the MoU on marine turtles in Africa, although in Liberia progress on the implementation of the MoU has been delayed by the recent end of the civil war. Similarly India and Kenya participated in the IOSEA MoU. Liberia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo require technical, financial and logistical assistance, and legal support is needed in Guinea. Future agreements are planned by four Parties (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Costa Rica, Cyprus and Liberia) including the creation of an inventory on marine turtle species, management plans for marine parks, and the loggerhead turtle (Democratic Republic of the Congo).
TERRESTRIAL MAMMALS (OTHER THAN BATS)
Five Parties reported on activities to initiate new agreemenis, including an agreement on gorillas (Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo), the negotiation of trans- boundary agreements for the snow leopard, elephant and tiger (India) and a proposal for the listing of the African wild dog and subsequent MoU (Kenya). Kenya has also commenced the negotiation of trans-boundary agreements on the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) and the African wild dog. Togo has initiated an MoU on the African elephant. Nine Parties have noted their participation in the development of new agreements. Angola, Belgium, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, France, Germany and Monaco have participated in a new agreement for gorillas, with several of these Parties providing financial contributions. Assistance for the development of MoUs has been provided by Belgium for antelopes, Burkina Faso for African elephants, and Mongolia for saiga (Saiga tatarica). Liberia is developing trans-boundary corridor agreements with other countries and Kenya is proposing the listing of the cheetah. The need for financial, technical and logistical assistance and expertise and scientific personnel is noted. The future developments of new agreements are planned by six Parties,
19
including MoUs on the African elephant (Democratic Republic of the Congo), African wild dog and cheetah (Kenya), Mongolian gazelle (Procapra gutturosa), wild camel (Camelus bactrianus) (Mongolia), snow leopard (Mongolia), Lord Derby eland, (Taurotragus derbianus) (Guinea) and Hippotragus antelope (Guinea). Liberia and Costa Rica are continuing to develop trans-boundary agreements.
BATS
Hungary and Italy noted activities in relation to the initiation of new agreements, with Italy mentioning parliamentary approval for the law required to join Eurobats. As regards participation in new agreements Italy again reported its role in Eurobats and the Democratic Republic of the Congo noted its involvement in developing agreements on the straw-coloured fruit bat (Eidolon hevlum), Schreibers's long-fingered bat (Miniopterus schreibersi) and mouse-eared bats. The Democratic Republic of the Congo needs assistance to finance equipment and to share experiences. Costa Rica, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Liberia are planning agreements in the future.
OTHER TAXA
Three Parties have initiated new agreements, including Australia and New Zealand on a draft MoU for migratory sharks and Croatia (unspecified). Australia and Germany have participated in developing new agreements by offering financial contributions to countries in relation to the draft MoU on migratory sharks. Croatia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway and the United Kingdom also attended the meeting on migratory sharks. Mongolia reported that it requires active involvement and financial assistance to initiate new agreements. Future plans for new agreements include the further development of the MoU on migratory sharks (Australia, New Zealand) and the development of new MoUs based on fieldwork data (Liberia).
PROTECTED AREAS
Fifty of the 54 reporting Parties (93%) reported that migratory species are taken into account when establishing / managing protected areas. Thirteen Parties reported this was through the declaration of Special Protected Areas (SPAs) under the EU Wild Birds Directive, and 11 Parties through of the designation of sites under the EU Habitats Directive / Natura 2000. Eight Parties reported that they adhere to guidelines issued under the Ramsar Convention when establishing wetland protected areas, while Paraguay uses BirdLife criteria. Eleven Parties noted that migratory species are considered by their own protected area criteria or legislation. Belarus stated that protected areas are created if more than 1% of either a wetland species population resides there or a global/European species breeds there. Liberian law dictates that the country should be the last stronghold for migratory species. Australia’s own guidelines include the protection of areas that are refuges or habitats for rare/threatened species. Similarly in Mauritius national parks are created based on their species biodiversity and rarity. In India migratory species are taken into account through a trans-boundary protected area network. Argentina noted that migratory species had not been a priority when establishing protected areas, except for one site.
Thirty-five (65%) of Parties identified their most important sites for migratory species. The number listed ranged from one in Antigua and Barbuda (Codrington Lagoon), Mauritius (Ramsar declared Rivulet Terre Rouge Bird Sanctuary) and Panama (Bay of Panama), to nearly 100 (Austria, Netherlands). Most sites are declared as SPAs, Natura 2000 or Ramsar protected areas. Others are managed and protected by government agencies or else are specialist sites, like the Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance that was established between France, Italy and Monaco under a protocol of the UNEP Mediterranean Action Plan programme.
20
Forty-six of 49 (94%) Parties that responded reported that terrestrial areas are covered by protected areas, and the number of protected areas and nature reserves in the 17 Parties that reported on them totalled over 17,500. The highest number of terrestrial protected areas were reported by Australia (9,011, covering 89.8 million hectares) and Germany (7,229). In Bolivia the terrestrial protected areas covered 16% of the country, whilst almost half of Morocco’s protected areas are forest ecosystems.
Forty-three of the Parties (80%) reported that protected areas include aquatic areas with approximately 100 protected areas reported. Togo noted that its two aquatic protected areas are artificial lakes. Thirty-five of the Parties that reported (90%) have marine areas within protected reserves, with only 48 such areas reported. Australia attempts to ensure that 50% of dugong habitats and 20% of marine turtles’ nesting and foraging sites are in protected areas. Germany reported that in the Baltic Sea almost 20% of marine areas are protected and 31% of marine areas are NATURA 2000 sites. New Zealand has 32 specific no-take marine zones in addition to 673,564 hectares of marine mammal sanctuaries.
The agency/department responsible for action on protected areas was identified by 48 Parties (89%) and mainly involved environmental, protected areas, nature, fishing, forestry or farming departments. Other, less common agencies included those on arts, culture or tourism, while Kenya has a specific Wildlife Service and the Ministry of Economy is responsible in Senegal.
Positive outcomes of actions taken included the designation of new protected areas by 15 Parties. Management plans for protected areas have been created by four Parties, and Poland reported the setting up of national protection plans for the porpoise, wood grouse (Tetrao urogallus) and black grouse (Tetrao tetrix). Germany has increased its populations of some birds, bats and seals. Belarus reported that it has protected the most important nesting sites of species in Appendices I and II, and New Zealand has increased biodiversity. Forests have been restored in Togo with community participation. The Republic of Congo and Chad now have trained people to carry out population counts, and Paraguay also now does more monitoring. Costa Rica reported that more than 25% of its territory is currently designated as protected areas. The Ministry in charge of protected areas in Togo has included the rehabilitation of elephant corridors in its programme.
SATELLITE TELEMETRY
Parties were asked to report on both current and future satellite telemetry projects. Twenty- nine out of the 54 reporting Parties reported on satellite telemetry projects carried out in the current reporting period, with 20 Parties reporting on-going projects, ten completed projects and three projects in preparation. Some Parties included details of the species that were tracked using satellite telemetry, and these are listed in Table 5. Satellite telemetry projects that were reported as planned in 2005 have now been carried out on black storks (Ciconia nigra) by Latvia and on albatrosses, marine turtles and sharks by Australia.
Of the 29 Parties that reported undertaking satellite telemetry projects, the largest number of Parties using this technology is in Europe (26 Parties). The largest proportion of reporting Parties implementing projects that use satellite telemetry occur in Asia and Oceania (100%) (Figure 7).
The lowest proportion of Parties using satellite telemetry is observed in Africa (62%). Eight Parties did not respond to the question.
Region
oc il
SCA
Nac
Eu
As
Af
@ Yes BNo
| @Noresponse |
T 10 ales Number of Parties
Oc: Oceania
No response (%)
SCA: South and Central America
NAC: North America and Caribbean
—
20 25 Eu: Europe
As: Asia Af: Africa
Figure 7: Number (graph) and percentage (table) of reporting Parties by region with satellite telemetry projects in the current reporting period
Table 5: Species reported as subjects of satellite telemetry studies Birds
Appendix
Aegypius monachus Anser erythropus Aquila clanga Aquila fasciata Aquila heliaca Aquila pomarina Ardea purpurea Branta leucopsis Casmerodius albus Ciconia boyciana Ciconia ciconia Ciconia negra Circus pygargus Falco cherrug Grus grus Gypaetus barbatus Gyps fulvus
Larus argentatus Larus fuscus Limosa limosa
RUISUSNSUSVehish sist iehistisl sais; =)!
Milvus migrans Milvus milvus Otis tarda Pandion haliaetus
SI Sls) (SPS i=
Pernis apivorus Thalassarche cauta
Common Name (English)
Eurasian black vulture Lesser white-fronted goose Greater spotted eagle Bonelli's eagle
Imperial eagle
Lesser spotted eagle Purple heron
Barnacle goose
Great egret
Oriental white stork
White stork
Black stork
Montagu’s harrier
Saker falcon
Common crane
Bearded vulture
Griffon vulture
Herring gull Lesser black-backed gull Black-tailed godwit Black kite
Red kite
Great bustard
Osprey
Honey buzzard
Shy albatross Albatrosses and petrels
22
Georgia Finland Germany
Portugal
Germany, Hungary Germany, Latvia Netherlands Netherlands Germany
Belgium
Belgium, Germany
Czech Republic, Latvia, Portugal Germany, Netherlands
Hungary
Finland
Georgia
Georgia Netherlands Netherlands Netherlands Germany Germany Hungary Finland, Germany, United Kingdom Germany, United Kingdom Australia
Australia, United Kingdom
Marine Mammals
Scientific Name Balaenoptera borealis
Appendix Vv
I
Il
Common Name (English)
Sei whale Common seal
Portugal Germany
Phoca vitulina
Harbour porpoise Germany
United Kingdom
Phocoena phocoena Cetaceans
Marine Turtles
Common Name (English
Lepidochelys olivacea Olive Ridley turtle Loggerhead turtle
Australia, France Slovenia, United Kingdom
Vl Caretta caretta
Vil
Green turtle France, United Kingdom
Australia, Netherlands
Chelonia mydas
Marine turtles
Terrestrial Mammals (other than bats)
Common Name (English Damaliscus Antelope spp. Loxodonta africana African elephant
Bats (some tracked by radio telemetry)
Scientific Name
Barbastella barbastellus Barbastelle bat Germany Myotis bechsteinii Bechstein’s bat Germany Myotis brandti Brandt’s bat Germany Myotis dasycneme Pond bat Germany Myotis daubentonii Daubenton’s bat Germany Myotis myotis Greater mouse-eared bat Germany Myotis nattereri Natterer’s bat Germany Nyctalus leisleri Leisler’s bat Germany Pipistrellus pipistrellus Common pipistrelle Germany Plecotus auritus Brown long-eared bat Germany Rhinolophus hipposideros | Lesser horseshoe bat Germany
Other Taxa
Common Name (English) Acipenser oxyrinchus Atlantic sturgeon Germany
Vl Vil
Carcharodon carcharias | Great white shark Australia, New Zealand Basking shark United Kingdom
Whale shark Australia, United Kingdom
Cetorhinus maximus
Rhincodon typus
Future projects are planned by 22 Parties, details of which can be found in Table 4. The Democratic Republic of the Congo noted that it planned to provide all protected areas with accurate migration maps partly through the use of satellite telemetry. Seventeen Parties noted that they did not have any satellite telemetry projects planned, mainly due to financial reasons (seven Parties), technical difficulties, or lack of human resources, materials or training in the technology. The Democratic Republic of the Congo reported it needed permission from the International Centre of Conflict and Negotiation to provide sites with the technical equipment
needed.
The region with the largest number of reporting Parties planning to use satellite telemetry in the future was Europe (ten Parties), although all reporting Parties in Oceania and Asia are planning projects, as illustrated in Figure 8. Europe also has the largest number of Parties not planning satellite telemetry tasks (nine Parties), although Africa has a slightly higher
23
percentage of Parties not developing plans (38%) than Europe (35%). In total 15 Parties did not respond to this question on satellite telemetry.
Oc i a Region ae response | A aa (cL me | | HNo NAC g | @ No response
Oc: Oceania
SCA: South and Central America
Eu: Europe
NAC: North America and Caribbean
0 5 10 15 20 25 f As: Asia
Number of Parties Af: Africa
Figure 8: Number (graph) and percentage (table) of Parties by region planning future satellite telemetry projects
Various positive results of projects using satellite telemetry are reported including the increased understanding of migratory routes (18 Parties) and the identification of new key habitat sites for resting (eight Parties) and wintering (four Parties), feeding and breeding. Italy noted that as a result of satellite telemetry Egyptian vultures (Neophron percnopterus) had been found to winter in Mali in western Africa. In the Netherlands, key wintering sites where geese are undisturbed and where farmers can be compensated for the damage have been identified, and the information on flyways is also being used for research on avian influenza. Belgium identified potential bottleneck areas and threats caused by its solar- powered transmitters.
Satellite telemetry projects also helped to identify the exact timing of movements of migratory species (four Parties), their behaviour (sharks in Australia, eagles and sturgeons in Germany, turtles in Uruguay) and flight speeds (storks in Hungary and Germany). Australia and France have determined the at sea distribution of albatrosses and petrels and their interactions with fisheries, and have been able to plan their protection from long-line fishing. Shark species projects in Australia helped to indicate the health of populations. Germany has undertaken numerous satellite telemetry projects including projects on seals to gain knowledge on their foraging depths and duration of predation, on bats to determine daytime roosts and hunting grounds, on raptors which demonstrated that only males are territorial and only towards other males, and on sturgeons to provide information on distance travelled each day and the state of their reintroduction programme. Through its satellite telemetry projects Mongolia is considering critical migration corridors for protection. New Zealand noted that some migratory shark routes apparently coincided with the northern migration of humpback
whales.
Table 6: Species reported for planned future satellite telemetry projects
Birds
Common Name (English) | Party | Timeframe
Bar-headed goose India
II Anser indicus Vo Aquila clanga Greater spotted eagle Germany probably continuing Vl Aquila heliaca Imperial eagle Germany Until 2008
Aquila pomarina Lesser spotted eagle Germany continuing
24
Scientific Name Branta leucopsis Diomedea exulans Gyps fulvus Macronectes giganteus
I Macronectes halli
II Milvus migrans
I Milvus milvus
II Neophron percnopterus Vil Otis tarda
II Pandion haliaetus
Il Phoebetria palpebrata II Phoenicopterus
Procellaria aequinoctialis Procellaria conspicillata
Thalassarche chrysostoma Thalassarche melanophrys
Marine Mammals
Scientific Name Dugong dugon
Appendix
Marine Turtles
Scientific Name
Va Caretta caretta Wit Chelonia mydas Vi Dermochelys coriacea
Common Name (English) Bamacle goose Wandering albatross Griffon vulture
Southern giant petrel Northern giant petrel Black kite
Red kite
Egyptian vulture
Great bustard
Osprey Light-mantled sooty albatross Flamingos
White-chinned petrel Spectacled petrel Grey-headed albatross Black-browed albatross Albatross
Crane
Ducks
Seabirds
Shorebirds
Vulture
Waterfowl
Common Name (English) Dugong
Baleen whales Cetaceans Marine mammals
Common Name (Engli Loggerhead turtle Green turtle
Leatherback turtle Marine Turtles
Terrestrial Mammals (other than bats)
Appendix Camelus bactrianus Elephas maximus
I Loxodonta africana Lynx lynx Ovis ammon II Procapra gutturosa vi Saiga tatarica
Taurotragus derbianus
Ursus arctos
Other Taxa
Scientific Name Common Name (English)
Wild Bactrian camel Indian elephant
African elephant
Lynx
Argali/wild sheep Mongolian gazelle Saiga antelope GianULord Derby eland
Brown bear Small carnivores
Netherlands United Kingdom Cyprus
United Kingdom United Kingdom Germany Germany
Italy
Hungary India
Germany, Norway United Kingdom Republic Of Guinea
United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom Australia
India
Italy
New Zealand New Zealand India
India
Pa Australia Portugal
Australia France
Uruguay
France
Uruguay Uruguay Australia, India, Italy, Panama, United Kingdom
Pa Mongolia India Angola
| Serbia Mongolia Mongolia Mongolia Republic of Guinea Serbia
Mongolia
Timeframe
2008 2008
probably continuing probably continuing
2008
continuing
Timeframe
until 2011
2010-2014
Timeframe
2008-09
Timeframe
2008
until 2010
Common Name (English) | Party | Timeframe
Carcharodon carcharias Great white shark New Zealand continuing
1/1 Cetorhinus maximus Basking shark New Zealand continuing Hucho taimen Taimen fish Mongolia Sharks Australia
MOBILISATION OF RESOURCES
A key challenge for the CMS is the development and mobilisation of human capacity and financial resources to implement needed conservation measures. Parties were asked six questions in relation to the mobilisation of resources for their countries, other countries (particularly developing countries), and the CMS Trust Fund.
RESOURCES FOR CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES WITHIN PARTY COUNTRY
Of the 54 Parties reporting, 40 Parties have indicated that they have made financial resources available for conservation activities that benefit migratory species in their own country. The migratory species that benefitted from such activities are listed in Table 7, including the Parties that made financial resources available in their country. Financing to monitor migratory species was reported by six Parties, and both Belgium and Czech Republic are preparing bird atlases. Belarus reported that bird migration was monitored in relation to evaluating the number of deaths by avian flu virus. Financial resources have also been put towards management plans, the creaticn of protected areas, awareness-raising and research. Australia noted that much of its funding went towards the implementation of its Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act and on community-based conservation projects. Morocco is implementing reintroduction programmes and in Germany €1.8 million has been spent on sturgeon reintroduction and conservation. Honduras is working on a national inventory of wetlands, while the Netherlands has funded projects to reconcile agriculture and wintering geese. Cyprus has financed bat detectors, mapping the impacts of forest fragmentation, training and information leaflets on bats.
Table 7: Species benefitting from resources made available within Party country for conservation activities
Birds
Va Acrocephalus paludicola | Aquatic warbler Belarus, France, United Kingdom
II Anas spp. Wigeon Netherlands
II Anser anser Greylag goose Czech Republic
Vl Anser erythropus Lesser white-fronted goose | Finland, Norway
Vl Aquila adalberti Spanish imperial eagle Spain
VO Aquila clanga Greater spotted eagle Belarus, Latvia
VI Aquila heliaca Imperial eagie Hungary
II Aquila pomarina Lesser spotted eagle Germany, Latvia
II Botaurus stellaris Great bittern Belarus
II Branta bernicla bernicla Dark bellied Brent goose United Kingdom
VI Chlamydotis undulata Houbara bustard Morocco Ciconia spp. Storks Latvia
I Ciconia ciconia White stork Belarus
II Ciconia negra Black stork Portugal
II Crex crex Com crake Latvia
II Falco cherrug Saker falcon Hungary Falco vespertinus Red-footed falcon Hungary Geronticus eremita Northern bald ibis Morocco
Vv Haliaeetus albicilla White tailed eagle Austria, Belarus, Finland Leobrychus minutus Little bittem Belarus
II Limosa spp.
tt Otis tarda
VI Oxyura leucocephala
I Pelecanoides garnotii
Il Phoenicoparrus
Vl Phoenicoparrus andinus Vi Phoenicoparrus jamesi II Phoenicopterus chilensis
Puffinus mauretanicus
Spheniscus humboldti
Marine Mammals
Dugong dugon Lontra felina
Megaptera novaeangliae Monachus monachus
Shs ee
Phocoena phocoena
Marine Turtles
Caretta caretta Chelonia mydas
Dermochelys coriacea
See
Lepidochelys olivacea
Common Name (English)
Godwit Great bustard
White-headed duck Peruvian diving petrel Flamingos (4 spp.) Andean flamingo Puna/James’ flamingo Chilean flamingo Balearic shearwater Humboldt penguin Albatrosses
Birds
Petrels Rollers Waterbirds
Common Name (English)
Dugong Marine otter Humpback whale Monk seal Harbour porpoise Cetaceans
Dolphins Whales
Common Name (English)
Loggerhead turtle Green turtle
Leatherback turtle Olive Ridley turtle Marine turtles
Terrestrial Mammals (including bats)
Camelus bactrianus Elephas maximus
Loxodonta africana Loxodonta cyclotis Ovis ammon
II Saiga tatarica Uncia uncia
VI
Vicugna vicugna
Common Name (English)
Wild Bactrian camel Indian elephant
African elephant African forest elephant Argali/wild sheep Saiga antelope
Snow leopard
Vicuna
European bats
27
New Zealand Austria, Hungary
Pakistan, Spain Chile, Peru Chile
Bolivia, Peru Bolivia, Peru Bolivia, Peru
Spain
Chile, Peru
New Zealand, United Kingdom
Costa Rica, Croatia, Italy, Mongolia, Paraguay, Portugal
New Zealand, United Kingdom
Belarus
Czech Republic, Germany, India,
Netherlands, Togo
Australia Chile, Peru
Chile Croatia, Morocco Germany
Belgium, Costa Rica, Monaco, New
Zealand, Portugal, United Kingdom Croatia Togo
Cyprus, Peru Cyprus, Pakistan, Peru
Peru Peru
Angola, Australia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Honduras, India, Italy, Kenya, Senegal, Togo, United Kingdom
Mongolia India Togo Liberia Mongolia Mongolia Mongolia, Pakistan Bolivia, Peru
Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Portugal, United Kingdom
Other taxa
Appendix
Scientific Name Common Name (English)
Acipenser spp. Sturgeons Acipenser sturio European sea sturgeon
Germany
Val France
Fish species (unspecified) Sharks
Mongolia New Zealand
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO CMS TRUST FUND
Eight Parties have provided voluntary contributions to the CMS Trust Fund. This includes Australia which gave A$150,000 for the dugong MoU, A$125,000 towards the conservation of migratory sharks and A$150,000 for the implementation of Resolution 8.15 on by-catch. Monaco has contributed to the conservation of the monk seal and establishment of a marine corridor, and the Prince Albert II Foundation has assisted the conservation of Bonelli’s eagle, albatrosses and petrels. Denmark has contributed to many restoration projects and the Netherlands has assisted the FYROM. Finland, Germany, Norway and the United Kingdom made contributions to assist delegates from developing countries to attend CoPs.
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO OTHER COUNTRIES
Voluntary financial contributions were made by 11 Parties to support conservation activities in other countries. Details of the Parties providing voluntary contribution and the activities / countries supported are provided in Table 8.
Table 8: Voluntary contributions made by Parties for conservation activities in other countries
Wetlands International (Asia Pacific Migratory Waterbird Conservation Strategy) Dugong arrangement under CMS
Australia IOSEA MoU and Dugong MoU (supporting developing country range states to attend) Pacific Regional Environment Programme Papua New Guinea Belgium Avian Influenza Task Force Year of the Dolphin 2007 Denmark Argentina: ruddy headed goose (Chloephaga rubidiceps) Sahelo-Saharan antelopes programme France Elephants in eastern Africa Gorillas Germany Democratic Republic of the Congo: gorillas and elephants (Kahuzi-Biéga Park) Sharks, waterbirds and saiga antelopes Netherlands Eastern Europe and developing countries: wetlands and migratory birds New Zealand Pacific Regional Environment Programme: turtles, dugongs and cetaceans Norway Russia: lesser white fronted goose Spain Panama: wetlands and migratory birds
Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean, Kenya, Nicaragua, Watamu and Zanzibar: marine turtles African-Eurasian region: waterbirds
Mediterranean and Baltic Seas: cetaceans
Lithuania and Ukraine: bats
Albatrosses and petrels in the southern hemisphere
Aquatic Warbler (Acrocephalus paludicola)
IUCN Shark Specialist Group and CMS shark meeting in Seychelles
United Kingdom
TECHNICAL/SCIENTIFIC ASSISTANCE TO DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Eleven Parties reported that they had provided technical/scientific assistance to developing countries. Details of the Parties providing assistance are provided in Table 9.
Table 9: Technical/scientific assistance provided by donor Parties to benefit migratory species
Technical / scientific assistance provided to: Samoa: Southern Cross Institute for Whale Research
Pacific Regional Environment Programme: turtles and dugongs
Australia Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pacific Island countries: marine turtles Chinese Bird Banding Centre Belgium Sahelo-Saharan Antelopes programme Cyprus Annual training courses for green and loggerhead turtle conservation
Czech Republic Waterbirds
Democratic Republic of the Congo | Training and study trips for researchers and students
Sahelo-Saharan Antelopes programme
France Niger and Chad: protected areas creation and frontier between Tunisia: translocation of addax and eland Training workshops held by International Academy for Nature Conservation Senegal: biological station established benefitting Charadriiformes, Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa), Ruff (Philomachus pugnax) and Aquatic Warbler (Acrocephalus Germany 5 paludicola) International Flyway-project: Wings Over Wetlands BIOTA AFRICA India Training wildlife managers Netherlands Goose working group of wetlands international New Zealand Tuvalu: turtles, sharks, cetaceans Spain Mauritius, Senegal, Tunisia and Morocco
United Kingdom Funding of officers for ACAP
RECEIPT OF CONTRIBUTIONS FROM CMS TRUST FUND
Five Parties reported to have received contributions from the CMS Trust Fund to benefit migratory species. This was in support of activities for the conservation of vicunas (Bolivia) and marine turtles and bar-headed geese (India). Studies were conducted on Humboldt’s penguin, marine otters and marine turtles in Peru, and in Uruguay a plan on reducing by-catch of albatrosses and petrels was developed as a result. In Mongolia funds enabled the translation and publishing of a CMS brochure and also participation in conferences on saiga and Mongolian gazelle.
RECEIPT OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE/ SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Twenty-three Parties reported being in receipt of either financial assistance or support for conservation activities from sources other than the CMS Secretariat, which included help from the EU/EU-LIFE Nature Fund (ten Parties) and the GEF-UNDP (four Parties). Angola and Honduras had received assistance from the Ramsar Convention, with Honduras also benefitting from the support of the Dominican Republic — Central America Free Trade Agreement to protect wetlands. The UNDP assisted wetlands programmes in Pakistan and Bulgaria, while Wetlands International helped Paraguay. Two Parties received assistance from BirdLife (Belarus, Paraguay) and the RSPB also assisted Belarus to conserve fen mires. In Kenya NGOs have helped to conserve Grevy’s zebra and the United States Government has supported the conservation of marine turtles. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has also assisted research and education in Paraguay and the United States Wildlife Conservation Society financed the Ramsar wetland site in the Republic of Congo.
Other sources of assistance include the Darwin Initiative, Michael Otto Fund and Frankfurt Zoological Society (Belarus), WWF (Bulgaria, Chad), EECONET, MATRA, BSPB and Alfred Topfer Foundation (Bulgaria), French Fund for Global Environment (Chad, Republic of Congo), IFAW (Chad), Forest Ecology and Management Group Of Wageningen University (Céte d'Ivoire), UNESCO (Democratic Republic of the Congo), GTZ (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Morocco), Parrot Park of Spain (Peru) and the Jane Goddall Institute (Republic
29
of Congo). A variety of species have benefitted from the assistance, including several bird species, the Mongolian gazelle (Procapra gutturosa), wild Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus), wild ass (Equus hemonus) , the snow leopard and marine turtles.
CMS COP RESOLUTIONS
Under Article VI of the Convention, Parties are required to provide information on the implementation of Resolutions and Recommendations in their reports to the CoP. In total 57 Resolutions are in force in whole or part, including 18 new Resolutions that were adopted at CoP8. Parties were requested to provide information on 20 Resolutions, including 12 that were adopted by CoP8.
RES. 6.2 - BY-CATCH AND REC. 7.2 - IMPLEMENTATION OF RES. 6.2 ON BY- CATCH
Twenty Parties reported a variety of measures to reduce by-catch. Onboard observation programmes are reported by Argentina and France, with Croatia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mauritius also monitoring by-catch. Denmark has mandatory observers and pingers in certain fisheries. Pingers are being tested and made obligatory in Germany and in the United Kingdom are mandatory on bottom-set nets from vessels greater than 12m in length. TEDs are being implemented in France, Kenya, Panama and the United Kingdom. The harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) is protected from by-catch in Denmark, Finland, Germany and Poland. Germany and Monaco are initiating bans on drift nets, with Germany also replacing gill nets with fish traps and reducing the dimensions of nets. Research on less harmful fishing gear is being conducted by France and Germany, and Germany aims to reduce by-catch to 1% of population estimates and prevent the catch of non-target or undersized fish. In Australia markets for by-catch are being established to reduce waste. Four Parties reported adherence to EC fishing regulations (Finland, Netherlands, Slovenia, United Kingdom), with Germany noting that a Year of the Dolphin symposium recommended improvements to the EC By-Catch Directive. France has joined ASCOBANS and Croatia, France and Monaco have joined ACCOBAMS. In Australia International Plans of Action have been adopted for seabirds and sharks, and a by-catch policy has been established.
RES. 6.3 -SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE ALBATROSS CONSERVATION
Four out of seven Parties that responded reported that they joined ACAP (Argentina, Chile, France, Norway) and Uruguay had ratified the agreement but was waiting for parliamentary approval. Australia has established a by-catch abatement plan for long-line fishing and requires long-liners operating south of 30°S to set their lines at night and have a line to scare birds away. New Zealand continues to work with other Range States to mitigate by-catch and improve research on albatrosses. France reported that it has implemented onboard observation programmes, is educating fishermen and using radar to detect illegal ships. France has also strengthened legislation by working with law enforcement officers and it plans to rehabilitate albatrosses to the Kerguelen Islands after eradicating introduced
mammals.
RES. 7.2 - IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MIGRATORY SPECIES
Thirteen out of the 21 Parties that responded reported that legislation made environmental impact assessments mandatory for development projects, with a further eight Parties noting that EIAs were carried out. Germany noted that EIAs are performed on offshore wind farms to assess the impacts on marine mammals, migratory birds and fish. In Hungary only some activities require EIAs including highways, motorways, railways, other roads longer than 10km and power lines of a high voltage and over 15km long. Panama noted that developers are required to provide solutions or rescue and relocation plans for species. France participated in a group assessing the impact of anti-parasitic chemicals and pesticides on bats, and is also part of a group investigating the activities threatening bats and their migration
30
routes. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is committed to minimising impacts on migratory species through its forest code, and Kenya performs impact assessments, emphasising the maintenance migratory corridors and habitats along the Rift Valley, and forest habitats for migratory birds.
RES. 7.3 - OIL POLLUTION AND MIGRATORY SPECIES
Of the 17 Parties that responded, ten Parties reported that they had contingency /mitigation plans in place to ensure a rapid response to oil pollution, clean-up operations and recovery of wildlife. Argentina has a manual on oil spills that is currently being edited, while Australia reported that equipment to deal with oil spills is strategically placed and it runs regular training programmes. India similarly conducts oil pollution drills and Finland trains voluntary groups. Legislation exists in the Democratic Republic of the Congo relating to the safe disposal of oil and in the Netherlands the dumping of oil is banned. Monaco and Slovenia have passed laws on oil pollution. The Baltic Sea (Denmark) and Wadden Sea (Denmark, Germany) are designated as “particularly sensitive sea areas” to minimise risk. GIS databases of coastal areas sensitive to oil pollution are being compiled in Kenya and the UK. Aerial surveys are carried out in Denmark and the Netherlands, whilst India and the Netherlands are Parties to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). A group of experts on pollution impacts has been formed in Germany, with a similar group planned in Panama. Kenya has a policy that the polluter pays the price, while Finland has three special transporters for cleaning and caring for oiled birds.
RES. 7.4 - ELECTROCUTION OF MIGRATORY BIRDS
Sixteen Parties reported activities in relation to measures to control the electrocution of migratory birds. Six Parties noted that legislation was in force to limit the risk of electrocution, which included providing visual markers, insulating wires, updating and replacing dangerous lines, using bird-friendly poles and re-routing lines underground. Agreements with electrical companies were reported by five Parties, with Hungary developing relations with the three most prominent electricity companies and implementing special stork nest holders (6,000 to date), because 80% of storks now nest on electricity poles. Studies to ascertain which migratory species are affected and in what numbers are being done by three Parties (Belgium, Hungary, Morocco). Morocco is ensuring that electricity lines are away from the main migration routes. Finland and the Netherlands note electrocution is not problematic now as all risky lines are insulated or underground.
RES. 7.5 - WIND TURBINES AND MIGRATORY SPECIES
Sixteen Parties reported on actions in relation to wind turbines and migratory species. EIAs are carried out for wind turbine proposals by 12 Parties. The United Kingdom has recently completed a study on the noise impact of offshore wind turbines on the marine environment. Due to increasing numbers of installations in Norway research is underway on the impact of wind turbines, while Germany is quantifying the bat and bird losses at specific wind farms. Kenya noted that there are no wind turbines in its coastal areas. The Netherlands reported that its legislation protects birds, and so wind turbines are not allowed if it is possible they will cause injury or death.
RES. 7.9 - COOPERATION WITH OTHER BODIES AND PROCESSES
Ten Parties reported co-operation with other bodies and processes. Two Parties reported co- operation with NGOs, private companies and international conventions for the restoration and conservation of species and their habitats (Belgium, Democratic Republic of the Congo). Germany noted co-operation on a range of activities, including the publication of bird biodiversity targets, sustainable indicators for conservation, a global strategy for plant conservation, MoUs for the great bustard and aquatic warbler, and studies on wildlife watching. Bodies co-operated with include: the CBD (Morocco, Slovenia); IOSEA (India);
31
Combat Against Marine Pollution (RAMOGE) and ACCOBAMS (Monaco); and BirdLife, RSPB, Wetlands International, GEF-UNDP, UNEP and UNESCO (Belarus).
RES. 7.15 - FUTURE ACTION ON THE ANTARCTIC MINKE, BRYDE’S AND PYGMY RIGHT WHALES
Eight Parties reported actions on the Antarctic Minke, Bryde's and Pygmy Right Whales. Australia and Kenya reported that they are members of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) and are opposed to commercial whaling. However, Australia noted that the assessment agreed by the IWC Scientific Committee for Antarctic Minke Whales (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) for 1982-1989 was no longer current and, therefore, no current abundance estimates exist. Australia also noted that assessments were underway for Antarctic minke and Bryde’s whale (Balaenoptera brydei), but that the IWC had yet to address the pygmy right whale (Caperea marginata). Bryde’s whale has been reported in Panama where a marine corridor is being created, and in New Zealand increased research on this species is being undertaken. In India actions relating to these whale species are covered under the nation’s Antarctic programme. The United Kingdom reported that attempts are being made on the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to formally report reliable sightings.
RES. 8.1 - SUSTAINABLE USE
Nine Parties provided comments on sustainable use. Australia, Croatia. Kenya, Morocco, and the United Kingdom have legislation to ensure sustainable use, and the United Kingdom reported on the EC Sustainable Hunting Initiative in the UK. Four Parties reported that they have action/management plans to promote sustainable use (Belarus, Germany, Kenya, United Kingdom), whilst Germany contributes to CMS guidelines to integrate migratory species into biodiversity action plans. Two Parties (Kenya and Norway) reported that local communities are involved in activities for sustainable use, and in Norway local jobs are supported at the same time as trade is monitored and controlled.
RES. 8.2 - CMS STRATEGIC PLAN 2006-2010
Actions relating to the CMS Strategic Plan were reported by nine Parties, including the integration of migratory species into national biodiversity strategies (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Germany, Kenya). Belarus is developing plans for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, while Slovenia has passed additional legislation to implement the Plan. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has participated in agreements and raised awareness, and Germany has promoted the Convention, recruited new Parties, participated in Agreements, made voluntary contributions, and provided national information on the status, threats, habitats and success of its actions relating to migratory species. Germany also organised a meeting on small cetaceans and marine protected areas as part of the Year of the Dolphin.
RES. 8.5 - IMPLEMENTATION OF EXISTING AGREEMENTS AND DEVELOPMENT OF FUTURE AGREEMENTS
Thirteen Parties noted their participation in existing agreements and the development of future agreements. Belgium, France and Italy are Parties to AEWA, ASCOBANS and Eurobats, while Norway is a member of Eurobats and AEWA. Chile, France and Norway are Parties to ACAP. France and Kenya are signatories to the IOSEA Marine Turtle MoU. Parties reported participation in several other agreements and MoUs, including: the aquatic warbler (France, Germany); ruddy-headed goose (Chile); saiga antelopes and great bustard (Germany); and gorilla, dugongs and cetaceans of Southern Pacific Islands (France). Germany and the Netherlands have participated in meetings on migratory sharks, and the Netherlands has also participated in WATCH and the birds of prey meeting. Germany reported that it has been involved with sturgeon restoration and conservation, and the African-Eurasian flyway agreement. Future agreements include a MoU on Andean flamingos (Chile) and proposing the listing of the African wild dog and cheetah (Kenya).
32
RES. 8.7 - CONTRIBUTION OF CMS IN ACHIEVING THE 2010 BIODIVERSITY TARGET
The CMS has helped contribute to ten Parties achieving the 2010 Biodiversity Target. This includes the development of national strategies and action plans in Belarus, Belgium, Chile and Kenya. A network of protected areas has been created and management projects carried out in Guinea and there are management plans for Specially Protected Nature Areas in Belarus. Australia and Morocco reported that the biodiversity target is being achieved through the CMS Strategic Plan. Germany has a Countdown 2010 initiative, although they requested that the CMS Secretariat gives more guidance to Member States. Kenya has developed wetland, forest, environmental and wildlife policies as well as national programmes to reduce invasive species.
RES. 8.9 - REVIEW OF GROMS (GLOBAL REGISTER ON MIGRATORY SPECIES)
Three Parties had reviewed GROMS. These included Australia which is actively highlighting data deficiencies for species in the CMS Appendices, the Democratic Republic of the Congo which is adhering to the mechanisms to update GROMS, and Germany which is evaluating and providing finance for GROMS.
RES. 8.11 - CO-OPERATION WITH OTHER CONVENTIONS
Ten Parties reported on co-operation with other conventions, including the CBD (Belarus, Germany, Netherlands, Slovenia), the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (Belarus, Germany, Morocco, Netherlands) and CITES (Australia, Belarus, Morocco). Belarus also participates in the Water Convention and, along with Morocco, the Convention to Combat Desertification. Morocco reported that it is also a Party to the Bern Convention. Belgium co-operates with conventions by the Media Ecology Association and uses the online database of biodiversity related conventions (TEMATEA).
RES. 8.13 - CLIMATE CHANGE AND MIGRATORY SPECIES
Thirteen Parties reported on actions in relation to climate change and migratory species. Five Parties have strategies or action plans on climate change (Chile, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Morocco). Research is being carried out by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom on the impacts of climate change, with the United Kingdom undertaking work to determine which species are good indicators of climate change and to develop standardised international protocols on monitoring. Germany has conducted censuses on water birds concluding that their spatial and temporal distributions have altered due to climate change, and is ringing birds to track changing movements. Monaco stated it has joined the Kyoto Protocol and is reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
RES. 8.14 - BY-CATCH
Many of the 14 Parties that responded reported the same actions as for Resolution 6.2. Other actions not previously noted include the continual control of fishing (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and an assessment of the impact of Atlantic tuna fisheries on seabirds, particularly ACAP species (United Kingdom). Norway is an active member of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) and implements their advice on long-line fishing. Italy is monitoring cetacean by-catch by trawlers and developing a by- catch programme based on ACCOBAMS guidelines.
RES. 8.22 - ADVERSE HUMAN INDUCED IMPACTS ON CETACEANS
Ten Parties reported on actions to reduce adverse human induced impacts on cetaceans. France and Italy are using acoustic deterrents (pingers) and doing studies on acoustic disturbance, along with Germany and the Netherlands. Seismic survey guidelines are being applied by Australia and France. New Zealand noted that it had held a national seminar on ship strikes. Research has been conducted on minimising strikes (Australia) and on high-
33
speed ships (Germany). Monaco noted impact assessments are mandatory for all marine work, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo surveys industrial activities. Australia is working on a network for large whale disentanglement, disseminating information and better practice, and is also monitoring marine debris and running clean-up projects. France conducted studies on the nuisance levels on small cetaceans of the Baltic to determine threats. Spain has approved a new decree to protect cetaceans, and Italy is promoting the idea of a label indicating sustainable fishing that does not impact on cetaceans.
RES. 8.24 - NATIONAL REPORTS FOR THE EIGHTH AND NINTH MEETINGS OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES
Nine out of the ten Parties that responded stated that reports had been completed, with the Netherlands noting that it had completed its 9" CMS report. Australia noted its attendance at the 32" meeting of the Standing Committee and its support for an on-line reporting format.
RES. 8.27 - MIGRATORY SPECIES AND HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA
Fifteen Parties reported on actions in relation to migratory species and highly pathogenic avian influenza. Seven Parties have contingency/strategic plans, including surveillance and monitoring of the status of avian influenza. Belgium noted that it was developing guidelines on avian influenza, follow-up measures, risk assessments of dead birds and biological analysis, but it needs financial support for the establishment of an Avian Influenza Task Force (AIWEB). The Cote d’Ivoire is also seeking financial support for inspectors to monitor nine migratory bird sites. The United Kingdom has established an Ornithological Expert Group, participated in the AIWEB and contributed to African surveillance programmes. It stressed the need for information exchange with other countries to develop long-term strategies. Denmark has implemented new legislation to prevent transfer from wild to domestic birds, the Netherlands has financed the translation of a brochure on avian influenza and Uruguay will soon evaluate the extent of the virus in wild migratory birds.
RES. 8.29 - CONCERTED ACTIONS FOR APPENDIX I SPECIES
Seven Parties reported concerted actions for Appendix I species. Species benefitting from concerted actions include the lesser white-fronted goose Anser erythropus (Czech Republic, Norway), aquatic warbler Acrocephalus paludicola and great bustard Otis tarda (Czech Republic, Germany) ferruginous duck Aythyanyroca (Czech Republic) and sturgeon (Germany). France has contributed to the development of an action plan on Sahelo-Saharan antelopes, and the Netherlands has financed gorilla conservation in the Great Lakes area. Increased protection has been provided for great white and basking sharks by New Zealand, and Norway has funded a full-time officer in the AEWA Secretariat. Germany received funding for three international conservation action plans for the black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor), spoon-billed sandpiper (Eurynorhynchus pygmeus) and Chinese crested tern (Sterna bernsteini).
OTHER RESOLUTIONS
Peru made a general note that there is a need for Parties to exchange information on the implementation of CMS Resolutions. Germany noted its support for Resolution 8.18 - Integration of Migratory Species into NBSAP's and into On-Going and Future Programmes of Work under the CBD by developing common guidelines to integrate species into National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs). It had allocated funds for a NBSAP workshop that was unfortunately cancelled.
34
CMS COP RECOMMENDATIONS
In total 24 Recommendations are completely or partly in force, including six new ones adopted by CoP8. Parties were requested to provide information on nine Recommendations, including the six Recommendations adopted by CoP8.
REC. 7.5 - RANGE STATE AGREEMENT FOR DUGONG DUGONG DUGON CONSERVATION
Four Parties reported on the Range State Agreement for dugong conservation. Australia has assisted the development of a regional agreement for the dugong that now has eleven signatories, is implementing the dugong action plan with the SPREP and is providing management training. France signed the dugong MoU in 2007, and India reported that it was considering signing the agreement (and subsequently did). In support of the agreement Kenya is increasing awareness, discouraging hunting, reducing pollution in key habitat areas and attempting to prevent drowning in fishing nets.
REC. 7.6 - IMPROVING THE CONSERVATION STATUS OF THE LEATHERBACK TURTLE DERMOCHEL YS CORIACEA
Eight Parties reported on actions to improve the conservation status of the leatherback turtle. France and Chile were conducting studies to reduce turtle interaction with fishing lines, and France is educating its fishermen on the issue. France also has plans to reintroduce turtles in areas where they have vanished. In Italy guidelines on recovery, rescue and rehabilitation will be published, while Panama is studying conservation and recovery alongside work with the local community. India is a signatory of the IOSEA, while Slovenia has made records publicly available. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo protection has improved through the IUCN monitoring the marine park and the provision of security, but more is needed.
REC. 8.12 - IMPROVING THE CONSERVATION STATUS OF RAPTORS AND OWLS IN THE AFRICAN EURASIAN REGION
Thirteen Parties reported actions to improve the conservation status of raptors and owls in the African Eurasian region. Four Parties (Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, United Kingdom) expressed interest in participating in a MoU on African-Eurasian raptors and owls. Germany noted that expansion of the AEWA was also needed. An international meeting had been held by the United Kingdom, with Morocco noting its attendance. The Netherlands and Norway also reported their participation in meetings to develop the agreement. Action/management plans for birds have been drawn up in Guinea, Croatia, Italy and Kenya. Nesting boxes have been installed in Belgium and a raptor sanctuary has been set up in Guinea. Monitoring studies are being conducted by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, while a study conducted by the United Kingdom has found 50% of migratory birds of prey have a poor conservation status and are at risk of rapid or long-term declines.
REC. 8.16 - MIGRATORY SHARKS
Seventeen Parties reported on actions in relation to migratory sharks. Both Australia and Uruguay are implementing the International Plan of Action for Sharks (IPOA), while seven Parties noted their participation in meetings on migratory shark agreements (Croatia, France, Germany Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway and the United Kingdom). Germany had sponsored and contributed financially to meetings and has proposed the listing of the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) and porbeagle (Lamna nasus) in Appendix II. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and India are continuing to monitor sharks, while New Zealand has increased legal protection for basking and great white sharks.
35
REC. 8.17 -MARINE TURTLES
Nine Parties reported on actions in relation to marine turtles. Australia and India noted their participation in IOSEA, with Australia developing a turtle recovery plan and contributing towards a review of action plans. Monitoring and restoration of turtle sites is planned by France and Mauritius, with France also conducting population genetic studies and anti- poaching campaigns, awareness-raising and protecting habitats, and having developed an action plan to reduce by-catch. Kenya has a conservation programme which involves identifying and protecting nesting and feeding sites, security patrols, educating fishermen, strict enforcement of fishing regulations and tagging turtles. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is monitoring turtle populations.
REC. 8.28 - COOPERATIVE ACTIONS FOR APPENDIX II SPECIES
Eight Parties reported on co-operative actions for Appendix II species. Five Parties (Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Norway) noted joint actions for the conservation of the corncrake (Crex crex). Germany reported that corncrake experts are members of BirdLife. Other actions include new action plans for species in Norway, a new habitat approach to conservation in the Netherlands, and agro-environment management and annual national mapping in the Czech Republic. The common quail (Coturnix coturnix) also benefits from co-operative activities in Denmark (action and management plans) and the Czech Republic (monitoring). Belgium provides support for the Sahelo-Saharan antelope programme. Germany has participated in the Wings Over Wetlands project and has joint re- introduction programmes with France for the European sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) and Poland for the Baltic sturgeon (Acipenser orynchus).
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS
Two Parties (Panama and the United Kingdom) reported on Recommendation 7.7 — America Pacific Flyway Programme. Panama noted that it is vital to the migration of many birds, so continues to conserve wetlands. The United Kingdom published proceedings of its 2004 conference on “Waterbirds around the World” in 2006. France and Mongolia reported on Recommendation 8.23 — Central Eurasian and Aridland Mammals. France had taken part in a joint project to conserve mammals in arid central Europe, and Mongolia noted that it had been the initiator of the Recommendation. As regards to Recommendation 8.26 - Grassland Bird Species and Their Habitats in Southern South America, Bolivia noted that it had not yet signed the MoU, but is planning to do so. India is considering a bustard or florican-based project.
36