Migratory species cross continents and oceans, ignoring political boundaries and relying on habitats spread across many countries throughout their annual migratory cycles. These cycles are formed by a complex “mosaic” of sites, habitats and biological events essential for their survival. Even the loss of a small component can disrupt the system and threaten species such as wildebeests, cranes, whales, sharks, elephants and dragonflies. Because these systems span vast distances and jurisdictions, their conservation requires coordinated, coherent international approaches – and this is where the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory species plays a vital role.
Effective conservation policy depends on detailed knowledge of animal movements. Migration atlases provide a valuable tool for synthesizing animal movement data, offering maps that show where animals are over time, ideally based on individually identifiable tracking data. The CMS Atlas on Animal Migration is a long-term initiative designed to make movement data accessible through a modular approach. Five nodules have already been developed, demonstrating the value of such information for governments, MEAs, IGOs, NGOs and other users. The Convention aims at further development of the Atlas as an open-access web tool for stakeholders and the public.
A foundational Workshop on CMS Atlas on Animal Migration is planned for October 8-12, 2026, in Vasto (Abruzzo), Italy. The purpose of this workshop is to bring together analysts who have contributed to the development of existing Atlas modules, as well as those currently working on new animal movement atlases, to share experiences and analytical and mapping tools. The workshop will also provide an opportunity to brainstorm on the future development of the Atlas and to explore ways to enhance access to its modules through a dedicated CMS Atlas portal. Representatives of development banks are invited to participate as key users of the Atlas, providing valuable perspectives on its practical applications.
