Both the Christmas Bird Count (CBC) and the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) provide information on the population status of the White-throated Sparrow. However, the CBC, which monitors the species on its wintering grounds in the United States, provides better coverage for this species that breeds primarily in the boreal forest. The CBC covers over 90% of the species' wintering range, most of which are birds that bred in Canada. CBC results suggest a 37% decrease in numbers since the early 1970s. The BBS, which covers about one-third of the breeding population in Canada, provides a good secondary source of data; results suggest a decrease of approximately 26% over the same time period. Regional BBS trends vary widely, from large decreases in the Atlantic Northern Forest Bird Conservation Region (BCR) and Great Lakes / St. Lawrence Plains BCR, to large increases in the Northern Rockies and Northwestern Interior Forest BCRs. The White-throated Sparrow is best assessed as having shown a moderate decrease in abundance since the early 1970s. The current population is below the lowest acceptable level relative to its national population goal (see CBC North America graph).
Additional information on: Christmas Bird Count (CBC)
Additional information on: Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) - Canadian analysis
