The breeding range of the Western Wood-Pewee in Canada extends from the Yukon to south-central Manitoba. Canadian Breeding Bird Survey data show a large decrease in numbers since 1973, a trend also seen throughout the species' continental range. Habitat loss and degradation throughout the species' range may be a factor in the declines (Bemis and Rising 1999). This species has been identified as a priority for conservation and/or stewardship in one or more Bird Conservation Region Strategies in Canada.
Habitat loss and degradation on both the wintering and the breeding grounds through urbanization, forestry, grazing and other agricultural activities have been suggested as possible factors (Bemis and Rising 1999) for the declines in this species. Like many other long-distance migrants that forage on flying insects, the Western Wood-Pewee has experienced widespread declines, the causes of which are not fully understood (Smith et al. 2015, Nebel et al. 2010).
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.