In 1983, the global population was estimated to number just 60 birds. Population in 2010 was estimated as between 1100 and 1200 individuals. It is currently listed as an endangered species (CITES I). As well as habitat loss, Lear's macaw has historically suffered from hunting and more recently trapping for the aviary trade. Various conservation organizations under ICMBio, along with local ranchers and other independent organizations, are working to help conserve the species. Fundação Biodiversitas created the Canudos Biological Station in 1993 to protect the sandstone cliffs used by the macaws to nest.