Defenders Hails Successful Listing of Shark, Ray and Sawfish Species under International Treaty

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2014

CONTACT INFORMATION Alejandra Goyenechea (202) 772-3268

November 10, 2014 (Washington, D.C.) – Twenty one imperiled species of sharks and rays were given added international protections at a recent multi-nation meeting on  conservation of migratory species held in Quito, Ecuador November 4-9, 2014. The species include the great hammerhead, scalloped hammerhead, thresher sharks, silky shark, devil rays, reef manta ray and sawfishes. The additions represent a record for the number of shark and ray species listed by the United Nations Environment Programme’s Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). The move will facilitate cooperation between countries and provide supporting mechanisms for the conservation of the species around the world.

Alejandra Goyenechea, Defenders of Wildlife’s Senior International Council, issued the following statement:

“Many of these species are in dire need of protection and we applaud the international community once again on their commitment to working together to conserve these magnificent animals. It is our hope that the new measures will lead to more regional cooperation and improved conservation efforts for these key species and their habitat.”

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Defenders of Wildlife is dedicated to the protection of all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With more than 1.1 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife heritage for generations to come. For more information, visit www.defenders.org and follow us on Twitter @defendersnews.