In Brazil, Saltator similis is appreciated by its singing abilities, with different varieties being identified by their particular singing (var. "Boi" and var. "João"). Birds are captured illegally, particularly in areas of Atlantic Forest, near urban centers, where they are traded in the black market. IBAMA has been effective in curbing such practices and the number of illegal birds captured has decreased from 2000 to 2014. However, with cuts in budget, and therefore less fiscalization, the numbers can be much higher [data needed].
