Why in news?
Tajikistan and Uzbekistan jointly submitted a proposal to include the striped hyena on Appendices I and II of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS). The proposal will be considered at the fourteenth Conference of the Parties (COP14) to CMS in Samarkand. Listing would require countries to protect the species and cooperate across borders.
Background
The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) is a medium-sized carnivore found in parts of Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Unlike spotted hyenas, they are solitary scavengers that feed on carrion, fruits and small animals. The species is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN.
Reasons for the proposal
- Population decline: Biologists estimate that only 5,000-9,999 mature striped hyenas remain worldwide. Numbers are declining due to habitat fragmentation, persecution and a reduction in prey species.
- Wide distribution: Striped hyenas roam across national borders in Africa and Asia. Listing on CMS would promote coordinated conservation measures in multiple countries.
- Threats: Habitat loss, retaliatory killings by livestock herders, accidental poisoning and road accidents are major threats. Protecting the species may also help preserve ecosystems where hyenas play a role in carrion removal and nutrient cycling.
Expected outcomes
If the proposal is approved, signatories will need to develop action plans, restrict hunting and trade, and support research into hyena ecology. India, which hosts a significant portion of the striped hyena’s range, will be involved in implementing conservation measures.
Source: Down To Earth