40 Animal Species Granted UN International Protection

Snowy owls, cheetahs, and hammerhead sharks among the newly protected species.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:50pm

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The United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals has approved measures to grant international protection to 40 new animal species, including the snowy owl, cheetah, and hammerhead shark. This initiative aims to strengthen global and regional conservation efforts for these iconic species.

Why it matters

The new protections are a significant step in preserving vulnerable animal populations around the world. Many of these species face threats like habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, making coordinated international action crucial for their survival.

The details

The 40 newly protected species and populations are now classified as either 'species in danger of extinction' or 'species in need of coordinated international action.' Multispecies conservation plans were also implemented for the Amazon region.

  • The UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals approved the measures on April 1, 2026.

The players

United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals

An intergovernmental treaty organization that aims to conserve migratory species throughout their ranges.

Amy Fraenkel

The Executive Secretary of the UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.

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What they’re saying

“We came to Campo Grande knowing that the populations of half the species protected under this treaty are in decline. We leave with stronger protections and more ambitious plans, but the species themselves are not waiting for our next meeting.”

— Amy Fraenkel, Executive Secretary, UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals

The takeaway

This new international protection for vulnerable species like the snowy owl, cheetah, and hammerhead shark represents a significant step forward in global conservation efforts. However, the work is far from over, as many of these animals continue to face existential threats that require sustained, coordinated action to address.