7 May 2013: As a contribution to the 2013 World Migratory Bird Day (11-12 May), the sixth issue of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) thematic fact sheet series focuses on migratory species and desertification. The publication notes the efforts of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) and the UNCCD to conserve migratory wildlife and to improve the conditions of ecosystems that support such species and are affected by land degradation.

The fact sheet notes that migratory ungulates, such as Saiga antelope and Argali sheep in Central Asia, face many threats, including over-hunting, overgrazing by livestock, and fences that deny access to important feeding grounds. It also highlights that the habitats of a significant number of such migratory species are protected under the CMS and are found in drylands. The fact sheet concludes that the successful implementation of regional, sub-regional and national plans and programmes to combat land degradation are therefore key to the survival of these species. [Publication: UNCCD Thematic Fact Sheet Series No. 6]