Animal Migration on the Decline

Migratory Wildebeest in the Serengeti Photograph: Nathan Gregory

Scientists have discovered a disturbing trend among migratory animals. It appears that animal migration is in severe decline all over the world. In some cases, animal migration has ceased altogether.

What are the causes for the decline in migration? They can be narrowed down to four main threats. They are the destruction of habitat, the erection of obstructions, over exploitation, and change in climate.

Scientists believe that the decline in migration is a significant issue due to the impact that migrating animals have on other animals and the environment.

Let's consider wildebeest for example. They play an important ecological role in the Serengeti. They are herbivores that consume large quantities of vegetation and redistribute nutrients through the expulsion of waste. They also provide food for the many predators of the Serengeti. If these migrating animals were to decline in great numbers, there would be severe consequences for the animals and vegetation of the Serengeti.

Learn more about this study, see:

• Going, Going, Gone: Is Animal Migration Disappearing (PLoS Biology)
  Wilcove DS, Wikelski M (2008) PLoS Biol 6(7): e188