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U.N. Report: 49% of Migratory Species in Decline

3/24/2026

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Species Decline Report

A U.N. summit in Brazil reports that 49% of migratory species populations are declining and 24% face extinction.
Freshwater fish populations have declined 81% since 1970, largely due to barriers such as dams.
The Hudsonian godwit has declined by 95%, affecting its migration.
Conservationists say protecting dugongs could boost carbon capture in seagrass ecosystems.

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Fish Population Crisis

A United Nations report finds freshwater fish have fallen 81% over 50 years due to pollution, dams, and overfishing.
The report calls for international cooperation to protect migratory fish, noting threats to dorado catfish.
Only 24 species are protected under the United Nations Convention on Migratory Species, while 325 are candidates.
Key basins at risk include the Amazon, Danube, Nile, Ganges, and Mekong, underscoring cross-border conservation needs.

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Species Decline Report

A U.N. summit in Brazil reports that 49% of migratory species populations are declining and 24% face extinction.
Freshwater fish populations have declined 81% since 1970, largely due to barriers such as dams.
The Hudsonian godwit has declined by 95%, affecting its migration.
Conservationists say protecting dugongs could boost carbon capture in seagrass ecosystems.

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