Central Asia Seeks CMS Protection for Striped Hyena

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have proposed the inclusion of the striped hyena in Appendix I and Appendix II of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). The proposal will be discussed at the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CMS COP15) scheduled to take place in Campo Grande, Brazil, from March 23 to 29. If approved, the move would grant the species the highest level of international protection and encourage coordinated conservation actions across its wide geographic range.

Proposal for Stronger International Protection

The two Central Asian nations argue that listing the striped hyena under both CMS appendices would require member countries to implement strict measures for protecting the species and its habitats. Such recognition would strengthen national policy frameworks and reduce bureaucratic obstacles that currently limit effective conservation. The proposal emphasises that coordinated transboundary conservation strategies are essential because the species frequently moves across national borders in search of food and suitable habitats.

Population Status and Conservation Concerns

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the striped hyena is categorised as Near Threatened globally and Vulnerable in the Mediterranean region. The global population is estimated to range between 5,000 and 9,999 mature individuals. Experts believe that numbers may be declining due to habitat loss and other pressures, bringing the species closer to meeting the criteria for the Vulnerable category worldwide. However, accurate population assessments remain difficult due to the animal’s nocturnal behaviour and elusive nature.

Wide Distribution and Migratory Behaviour

The striped hyena is one of four species in the Hyaenidae family, which also includes the spotted hyena, brown hyena and aardwolf. It inhabits a diverse range of ecosystems including savannas, semi-deserts, open woodlands, grasslands and mountainous areas. Its distribution spans large parts of Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and South Asia. The species often undertakes long-distance dispersal and seasonal movements, especially in arid regions where food and water sources are scattered. These movements frequently involve crossing international boundaries, highlighting the need for collaborative conservation approaches.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is an international treaty aimed at protecting migratory species and their habitats.
• Appendix I of CMS includes endangered migratory species requiring strict protection.
• Appendix II lists species that require international cooperation for conservation and management.
• The striped hyena belongs to the family Hyaenidae, which includes four extant species.

Major Threats to the Species

The striped hyena faces multiple threats across its range. Habitat loss and fragmentation caused by agricultural expansion, urban development and infrastructure projects have reduced available territories. Declining prey populations and changes in livestock management practices have also affected the species’ survival. Additionally, human–wildlife conflict often leads to persecution, driven by negative perceptions and concerns from farmers and herders. Conservationists believe that international recognition through CMS could strengthen protection measures and promote cooperation among countries sharing the species’ habitat.