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The 14th meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP14) to the CMS, held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, included two wild cat species found in India in the list of migratory species to be conserved under CMS: the Pallas’s Cat (Otocolobus manul) and the Central Asian lynx (Lynx lynx isabellinus).
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is an international agreement that aims to conserve migratory species throughout their ranges.
Pallas’s Cat
Status and Distribution
The Pallas’s Cat, also known as the manul, is a small wild cat species found in the high steppes and mountains of Central Asia. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the Pallas’ cat as “Least Concern”. In India, its range extends to the trans-Himalayan regions of Ladakh, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh.
Physical Characteristics and Behavior
Pallas’ cats have a stocky build, with thick fur, short legs, and a flattened face. They are well-adapted to the harsh, cold environments they inhabit. These cats are solitary and elusive, making them difficult to study and monitor.
Threats
The primary threats to Pallas’ cats include:
- Habitat degradation
- Prey base decline
- Poaching
- Traditional pastoralism
- Unregulated tourism
- Infrastructure development
Central Asian Lynx
Status and Distribution
The Central Asian lynx is a subspecies of the Eurasian lynx found in the mountains of Central Asia, including the trans-Himalayan region of Ladakh in India. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has categorized the Eurasian lynx as “Least Concern,” but the Central Asian subspecies faces numerous threats and has a limited distribution.
Physical Characteristics and Ecological Role
Central Asian lynxes are medium-sized cats with distinctive tufted ears, long legs, and a short tail. They play a crucial role as top predators in their ecosystems, helping to maintain the balance of prey populations.
Conservation Issues
The main conservation issues faced by Central Asian lynxes include:
- Habitat fragmentation
- Human-wildlife conflict
- Poaching
- Expansion of human settlements
- Agricultural activities
- Hunting for fur
- Retaliatory killings due to perceived threat to livestock
What is the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS)?
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) is an international treaty that aims to conserve terrestrial, marine, and avian migratory species throughout their ranges. The CMS recognizes that countries must work together to protect these species, as they cross national boundaries during their migrations.
CMS Appendices
Under CMS, migratory species are listed in two appendices:
- Appendix I: Species threatened with extinction
- Appendix II: Species that would benefit from international cooperation
The CMS encourages range states to conclude global or regional agreements for the conservation and management of these species.
Importance of Pallas’ Cat and Central Asian Lynx for Conservation
Pallas’ cats and Central Asian lynxes are important components of the ecosystems they inhabit. As predators, they help maintain the balance of prey populations and contribute to the overall health of their habitats. As both species face numerous threats, including:
- Habitat loss
- Poaching
- Human-wildlife conflict
The inclusion of these species in CMS highlights the need for international cooperation in their conservation. By working together, range countries can develop and implement coordinated strategies to address the threats faced by these cats and ensure their long-term survival.
