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Habitat loss and fragmentation are primary threats to migra-
tory species which, unlike non-migratory species, have less op-
portunity to simply shift to alternative habitats, with their entire
life cycle being dependent upon access to specific areas spaced
along their migration corridor (Berger, 2004; Bolger
et al.
,
2008). Hence, while habitat loss to non-migratory species may
reflect a proportional decline in population, the loss of critical
points for a migratory species may jeopardize the entire popu-
lation. Even with only a smaller fraction of their route or total
habitat destroyed, their ability to migrate, refuel or reproduce
may become entirely compromised. In many cases migrating
birds or ungulates have to leave areas seasonally as food sourc-
es become depleted or inaccessible. Although less visible, this
is the case for marine species as well.
Why do migratory species require special
collaboration?