Cooperating for the conservation of key species along the CAF

On December 12th, 2024 a virtual masterclass hosted by the Hanns Seidel Foundation Korea brought together experts and stakeholders to advance efforts in protecting migratory species across the Central Asian Flyways. Dr. Seliger opened the session, emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration among countries like Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan to preserve vital habitats and biodiversity.

Dr. Batmunkh Davaasuren of the Wildlife Science and Conservation Center of Mongolia (WSCCM) shared research on the bar-headed goose, a species with exceptional migratory capabilities, connecting ecosystems across China, Nepal, and Bangladesh. With a population of 30,000 in Mongolia’s mountain regions, tagged individuals have provided valuable data on migration routes, habitat use, and stopover sites. Long-term monitoring and training for local ornithologists are central to advancing these efforts and addressing knowledge gaps in the flyway.

Ms. Vera Voronova from the Association for the Conservation Biodiversity of Kazakhstan (ACBK) highlighted Kazakhstan’s role in protecting the Steppe Eagle, a flagship species of the Central Asian Flyway. Facing threats such as electrocution, poisoning, and habitat loss, the species benefits from initiatives like GSM tagging, artificial nest piloting, and mortality monitoring. Legislative improvements and regional cooperation under the Central Asian Flyway Initiative (CAFI) were also emphasized as crucial for its survival.

Lastly, Jeremie Berlioux and Katherine Hall from the Kyrgyz Association for Conservation of Biodiversity (KACB)  presented efforts to protect the endangered Egyptian Vulture in the Fergana Bottleneck, a vital migratory corridor in Kyrgyzstan. Targeted surveys and community engagement address threats like poisoning and NSAID exposure. These efforts aim to safeguard this vulnerable species by combining local participation and regional collaboration.

The masterclass showcased how research and regional partnerships are driving conservation efforts for migratory species. From the bar-headed goose to the Steppe Eagle and Egyptian Vulture, the initiatives presented highlight the need for collective action to ensure the survival of these iconic species and the ecosystems they support.