This species has a small population, which is in decline due to the loss and degradation of Polylepis woodlands within its range. It is therefore assessed as Near Threatened.

Zaratornis stresemanni is patchily distributed in the Cordillera Occidental of the Andes in Peru (La Libertad, Ancash, Lima, Ayacucho and Arequipa), with most records on the west slope.

The species is patchily distributed, but locally common or fairly common. In 1992, the population was suspected to number 1,000-4,000 mature individuals (Collar et al. 1992), though this may be a slight underestimate. Tentatively, the population is here placed in the band 2,500-9,999 mature individuals, but an accurate quantification of the population size is urgently required.

The species inhabits small patches of Polylepis woodland with a ground cover of Gynoxys shrubs and puna grass, mostly at elevations of 3,250-4,760 m (Schulenberg 2020). Despite being resident, it may undertake some seasonal altitudinal movements and descend to lower elevations during the dry season between August and November. It feeds primarily on two genera of mistletoe, for which it is the main seed-dispersal agent (Castañeda Gil 2010). Nest-building has been recorded in March, and nests with eggs and young have been found in May.

The most severe threat to the species are uncontrolled cutting of Polylepis woodlands for timber, firewood and charcoal, and heavy grazing by livestock, which prevent forest regeneration (Fjeldså and Kessler 1996; J. Fjeldså in litt. 1999, 2007; SERFOR 2018). Other factors include the inadequacy of afforestation projects, in particular the use of exotic plants (Fjeldså and Kessler 1996).

Conservation Actions Underway
The species occurs within several protected areas across its range, including Huascarán National Park, Ancash.

Conservation Actions Proposed
Survey to locate additional populations and refine the distribution range. Accurately quantify the population size. Research the species' ecology. Quantify the impact of threats on the population size. Monitor the population trend. Monitor rates of habitat loss.
Protect areas of suitable habitat within the range. Prevent overgrazing. Create buffer zones of firewood trees in altitudes below Polylepis woodlands. Establish reforestation programmes with Polylepis and other native species. Raise awareness for the species and its habitat.