Conservation and Management

Lesser Antillean Pewee is classified as a species of Least Concern; however, populations of this species are decreasing (IUCN 2013). During the long-term monitoring of bird populations at Guánica Forest in southwestern Puerto Rico, pewee capture rates have shown a long-term pattern of decline (see Populations and Demography).

Historically, populations of Lesser Antillean Pewee were likely lower in Puerto Rico because of the reduced forest cover. While open areas are used for feeding on insects, wooded areas are important for nesting.  Lesser Antillean Pewee has been recorded in both wet and dry wooded and scrub habitats, so maintaining a diverse range of habitat is important for this species. The declines of pewees recorded at Guánica Forest are of concern, as this is a large, protected area where habitat can be maintained. Similar trends are likely to be seen on the other islands where Lesser Antillean Pewees have been recorded, but data are unavailable.