The MacGillivray's Warbler breeds in moist, open forests in the mountains of western Canada. It is best monitored in Canada by the Breeding Bird Survey, data from which indicate an overall moderate decrease since 1970. Some of the highest breeding densities of MacGillivray's Warbler are found in British Columbia; Canada has a high responsibility for the species' conservation. This species has been identified as a priority for conservation and/or stewardship in one or more Bird Conservation Region Strategies in Canada.
MacGillivray's Warbler depends on riparian habitat during migration and breeding. The species usually responds positively in the short term to logging and mining practices in boreal Canada that open up forests and promote the growth of dense shrubbery. However, replanting of forest to pine plantations is thought to reduce habitat quality and population densities by impeding growth of the dense undergrowth habitat which MacGillivray's Warbler needs for breeding (Pitocchelli 2013). The continuing population decline may be influenced by habitat changes related to forest succession, harvest patterns and decreasing quality of riparian habitat.
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.
