An abundant and widespread species, the Eastern Phoebe is one of Canada's earliest spring migrants. Breeding Bird Survey results indicate the population has experienced a small decrease but is relatively similar to that of the early 1970s. This species has been identified as a priority for conservation and/or stewardship in one or more Bird Conservation Region Strategies in Canada.
An early spring migrant, the Eastern Phoebe is vulnerable to inclement weather in spring. A large proportion of the breeding population winters in the southern United States, where they may also be susceptible to severe weather conditions (Weeks 2011). While the use of human-made structures as nest sites is thought to have benefited the species, allowing for a range expansion into the prairies, it also means that some individuals may now be dependent on these structures. Recently, favoured structures such as bridges and culverts are increasingly being replaced by less favourable materials and a reduction of suitable nest sites may negatively affect the species (Weeks 2011, McNair 2016).
Environment and Climate Change Canada and partners have developed Bird Conservation Region Strategies in each of Canada’s Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs). In these strategies, selected species are identified as priorities for one or more of the following reasons:
Select any of the sub-regions below to view the BCR strategy for additional details.