Conservation Status and What It Means for Landowners
Federal Status: Endangered | State Status: Endangered
southwestern willow flycatcher is Federally endangered and state endangered in Texas. Landowners managing for this species should be aware of applicable legal protections and consult with TPWD regarding management activities that may affect the species or its habitat.
Habitat Requirements
southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) is a conservation-priority bird species documented across 6 Texas counties. This species uses a range of habitats depending on season and life stage, including woodland, grassland, wetland, or coastal environments. Breeding success depends on adequate nesting cover, reliable food sources, and minimized disturbance during the reproductive season. Habitat fragmentation and land use conversion are primary concerns for long-term population stability in Texas.
Wildlife Management Plan Implications
Including southwestern willow flycatcher as a target species in your wildlife management plan demonstrates active management for a species of conservation concern in Texas. Your plan should document habitat conditions on your property, identify management practices that benefit this species, and establish monitoring protocols to track population trends over the 5-year plan period. Because this species carries conservation status, managing for it strengthens your plan and demonstrates the highest standard of land stewardship.
Texas Ecoregions
- Multiple Texas ecoregions
Texas County Distribution
6
of 254 Texas counties with documented occurrences
2% of Texas counties
Recommended Management Practices
These practices from the 7 pillars of wildlife management are most relevant to southwestern willow flycatcher conservation.
Habitat Control
Maintain diverse vegetation structure with appropriate nesting and foraging cover
Census
Conduct breeding season point-count surveys to document presence and abundance
Predator Management
Control nest predators during the breeding season to improve reproductive success
Providing Shelter
Retain mature trees for roosting and protect nesting areas from disturbance
Include southwestern willow flycatcher in Your Wildlife Management Plan
Our interactive plan builder walks you through selecting target species, mapping your property, and meeting TPWD intensity standards for your ecoregion. Flat rate pricing, any Texas county.
Start Your Wildlife Management PlanFrequently Asked Questions
What does the conservation status of southwestern willow flycatcher mean for my property?
southwestern willow flycatcher is currently Federally endangered and state endangered. This means the species receives legal protection and managing for it in your wildlife plan demonstrates compliance with conservation priorities. Active management for listed species can also open the door to conservation incentive programs.
How do I survey for southwestern willow flycatcher on my property?
Survey methods depend on the species and habitat type. For southwestern willow flycatcher, consult your ecoregion's TPWD wildlife biologist for recommended survey protocols. Document all observations with date, location, habitat description, and photographs when possible. Include survey results in your annual wildlife management plan activities log.