In Canada, the Prothonotary Warbler breeds exclusively in the deciduous swamp forests in the Carolian forest of southwestern Ontario, at the northern limit of its breeding range. Annual surveys indicate the species has experienced a large decrease in population since about 1970. In 2003, the species was listed as Endangered under the Species at Risk Act due to its very small Canadian population (less than 30 individuals) and restrictive habitat requirements, which make it susceptible to habitat loss on both its wintering and breeding grounds (confirmed in 2016; COSEWIC 2016d). This species has been identified as a priority for conservation and/or stewardship in one or more Bird Conservation Region Strategies in Canada.
The Prothonotary Warbler is thought to be mainly affected by loss and degradation of its primary breeding habitat, deciduous swampland, wintering habitat and coastal mangrove forests in Latin America (COSEWIC 2007). Threats on the species breeding grounds have increased and invasive species such as the Emerald Ash Borer and European Common Reed have affected the quality of breeding habitat (COSEWIC 2016d). Other threats to the population include: nest site competition from other bird species, high predation and emerging concerns related climate change (Environment Canada 2011g). A rescue effect from the larger populations in the United States, though possible, is unlikely (COSEWIC 2007). For information on the legal status of this species under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and to view the Recovery Strategy, see the SARA Registry.
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.
