The IUCN originally assessed the bearded screech owl as Near Threatened. In 2012 it changed the rating to Vulnerable and in 2020 to Least Concern. Its population has an estimated size of at least 20,000 mature individuals but is believed to be decreasing.[1] Its total range is estimated at about 9,800 km2 (3,800 sq mi).[2] Mexican officials have listed it as endangered in that country due to extensive deforestation.