Striped Hyena Proposed for CMS Appendix I and II at COP15
Context:
Recently, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have proposed that the Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena) be included 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 be held in Campo Grande, Brazil from March 23–29, 2026.
About the Striped Hyena:
The Striped Hyena is a medium-sized carnivorous mammal belonging to the family Hyaenidae. It is the only hyena species found in the Indian subcontinent and plays an important ecological role as a scavenger.
Key Features:
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- Scientific name: Hyaena hyaena
- Mostly nocturnal and elusive
- Characterized by black stripes on a greyish coat and a long dorsal mane
- Possesses strong jaws capable of crushing bones
- Primarily a scavenger feeding on carrion, but can hunt small animals.
- Scientific name: Hyaena hyaena
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Habitat and Distribution:
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- The species is widely distributed across:
- North and Sub-Saharan Africa
- Middle East
- Central Asia
- South Asia (including India)
- North and Sub-Saharan Africa
- It typically inhabits arid and semi-arid ecosystems such as:
- Savannas
- Grasslands
- Semi-deserts
- Open woodlands
- Rocky mountainous terrain
- Savannas
- The species is widely distributed across:
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Conservation Status:
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- IUCN Red List: Near Threatened (Globally)
- Mediterranean Region: Vulnerable
- India: Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (highest protection).
- IUCN Red List: Near Threatened (Globally)
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Major Threats:
The striped hyena faces several pressures across its range:
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- Habitat loss and fragmentation due to agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development.
- Declining prey base and changes in livestock practices.
- Human-wildlife conflict and persecution due to negative perceptions among communities.
- Illegal hunting and trade.
- These threats have contributed to a steady population decline in many regions.
- Habitat loss and fragmentation due to agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development.
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The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS):
The report is prepared under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). Adopted in 1979 under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), CMS is a legally binding international treaty aimed at conserving migratory animals and their habitats across national borders.
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- Two Key Appendices:
- Appendix I includes endangered migratory species and requires strict protection, including habitat restoration and prohibition of hunting.
Appendix II includes species that require international cooperation for conservation.
- Appendix I includes endangered migratory species and requires strict protection, including habitat restoration and prohibition of hunting.
- Two Key Appendices:
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Importance for India:
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- India hosts significant populations of striped hyenas, particularly in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
- Stronger international protection would:
- Improve transboundary conservation
- Enhance regional cooperation across Asia
- Support conservation of open natural ecosystems where the species thrives.
- Improve transboundary conservation
- India hosts significant populations of striped hyenas, particularly in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
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Conclusion:
The proposal by Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to include the striped hyena in CMS Appendices I and II reflects growing concern about the species’ declining population and fragmented habitats. If adopted at CMS COP15, it could strengthen global conservation efforts through strict protection measures and enhanced international cooperation, helping ensure the long-term survival of this ecologically important scavenger.
