The Pallas’ cat and the Central Asian lynx, two notable wildcats found in India, have recently been included in Appendix II of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS). This treaty is dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of migratory animals and their habitats. The listing is specifically intended for species that are facing an unfavourable conservation status and require international cooperation for their conservation and management.
The inclusion of these cats in Appendix II represents a significant step in recognizing the global need for cooperative conservation efforts. This international acknowledgment facilitates the development of improved conservation strategies, encourages transboundary cooperation, enhances the exchange of information, and may increase support and funding for conservation initiatives in India and other range countries.
Despite their recent recognition, both the Pallas’ cat and the Central Asian lynx are grappling with numerous challenges in India. These include:
As a result of these threats, their populations are currently on the decline.
The addition of these species to CMS Appendix II is anticipated to elevate their conservation priority both globally and nationally. It encourages countries to collaborate in sharing data, implementing conservation measures, and securing international funding to support research and conservation activities. Such a collaborative approach is crucial for migratory species that traverse national boundaries.
For the Central Asian lynx, proposed strategies include:
Similarly, for the Pallas’ cat, the focus is on reducing human-caused mortality and aligning conservation actions with the Pallas’ Cat Strategy and Action Plan 2018-2028. Both strategies underline the importance of international cooperation and the effective implementation of conservation actions.
While international listings provide a framework for global cooperation and can help attract funding, effective conservation also necessitates robust national initiatives. Experts emphasize the importance of increasing support and funding in India to study these wildcats, address their threats, and implement effective conservation measures. This approach includes leveraging the listings to enhance legal protection, research, and on-the-ground conservation initiatives.
Investigating these wildcats in conjunction with species like the snow leopard can yield valuable insights into ecosystem health and the interconnected conservation needs of various species. For the Central Asian lynx, one proposed strategy is to utilize the established network for snow leopard conservation to gather data on the lynx. This integrated approach can optimize conservation outcomes by addressing the requirements of multiple species within their shared habitats.
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