What threats do birds of Southern South American grasslands face?

The threats to bird populations in Southern South American grasslands are primarily anthropogenic, including:

  1. Habitat loss and degradation due to agriculture and deforestation.
  2. Illegal capture and trade of birds.
  3. Introduction of invasive alien species, such as wild boars and non-native plants.
  4. Pollution and the conversion of grasslands for monocultures like soybeans and rice.
  5. Overgrazing beyond the ecosystem's capacity, which diminishes species diversity.
  6. Improper fire management and excessive use of pesticides.

Conservation efforts must balance agricultural and livestock farming practices to ensure sustainability while preserving biodiversity.

 

How many species are covered by the MOU?

As of December 2024, the MOU covers 11 species  listed under CMS Appendices I and II including the Strange-Tailed Tyrant (Alectrurus risora), Cock-tailed Tyrant (Alectrurus tricolor), Buff-breasted Sandpiper (Calidris subruficollis), Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), Eskimo Curlew (Numenius borealis), Bearded Tachuri (Polystictus pectoralis pectoralis), Chestnut Seedeater (Sporophila cinnamomea), Gray-and-Chestnut Seedeater/Rufous-rumped Seedeater (Sporophila hypochroma), Marsh Seedeater (Sporophila palustris), Dark-throated Seedeater (Sporophila ruficollis), and Saffron-Cowled Blackbird (Xanthopsar flavus).

A proposal to include new species was discussed at MOS3 (See: Species for potential inclusion under the MOU).

 

Does the MOU has specific objectives?

Yes, the MOU has 5 specific objectives, these are:

  1. Promote the protection and sustainable management of grasslands important for migratory species and the ecosystem services they provide.
  2. Develop and coordinate monitoring and research programs for the species covered by the MoU, their habitats, and grassland ecosystems.
  3. Raise awareness about the importance of natural grasslands and threatened species.
  4. Develop and strengthen public and private policies for the conservation of natural grasslands, promoting collaboration with the productive sector and civil society.
  5. Strengthen international cooperation for the implementation of the MoU.

 

How has the MOU contributed to the conservation of grassland birds and their habitats based on the 2024 monitoring exercise?

The MOU has proven to be a vital tool for international cooperation in conserving grassland birds and their habitats. According to the 2024 monitoring exercise (see: Monitoring Tool), which evaluated 43 planned actions, 51% of the actions are progressing well, 37% face challenges in implementation, and 12% are either incomplete or have not yet started. While no actions have been fully completed, the results highlight the ongoing efforts and the need for continued focus on addressing barriers. The exercise highlights the importance of strengthening efforts to ensure the successful implementation of the MoU's objectives and tackle the challenges that remain.

 

What are the key challenges faced by the MOU?

  1. Funding and Human Resources: Limited financial and human resources for large-scale conservation efforts.
  2. Coordination Gaps: Gaps in coordination between stakeholders hindering efficient conservation actions.
  3. Impact of COVID-19: Disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic affecting implementation of planned activities.
  4. Action Plan Strengthening: The need to strengthen action plans for the next MOU cycle to ensure greater impact.
  5. Sustainable Grassland Management: Ensuring the sustainable management of grasslands amidst growing pressures.
  6. Global Partnerships: Enhancing global partnerships for long-term conservation of migratory grassland birds.

 

What are the key achievements of the MOU as of 2024?

  1. Protected Areas: Expansion of conservation areas to safeguard critical habitats.
  2. Awareness Campaigns: Education efforts focused on illegal trade and the importance of grassland ecosystems.
  3. Research: Increase in the number of studies and scientific research on grassland bird species and their habitats.
  4. Collaboration: Enhanced cooperation among Signatory countries for coordinated conservation efforts.
  5. Joint Monitoring: Implementation of joint monitoring programs and sharing of best practices across countries.
  6. Financial and Technical Support: Secured funding and technical resources to support conservation activities.