Having once been abundant, the Rodrigues Fody Foudia flavicans declined dramatically to around 6 pairs in 1968, although the population is now increasing, with around 900 individuals counted in 1999 and 8,000 in 2010.This is one of the most successful recoveries in the history of avian restoration.

Predation by rats and cats is still a threat and the species is classified as Vulnerable. MWF is considering reintroducing the bird to other forested areas where it once existed.