Golden Cheeked Warbler
Endemic Texas Species
Background Information
Golden-cheeked warblers nest only in central Texas mixed Ashe-juniper and oak woodlands in ravines and canyons. Warblers eat insects and spiders found on the leaves and bark of oaks and other trees. They use long strips of cedar bark and spider webs to build their nests. They come to Texas in March to nest and raise their young, and leave in July to spend the winter in Mexico and Central America. Females lay 3-4 eggs during nesting season. Of the nearly 360 bird species that breed in Texas, the Golden-cheeked Warbler is the only one that nests exclusively in Texas.
Habitat: Woodlands with tall Ashe juniper (colloquially "cedar"), oaks, and other hardwood trees provide habitat for the golden-cheeked warbler.
Bibligraphy: Texas parks and wildlife
Threat and cause of endangerment
Golden-cheeked warblers are endangered because many tall juniper and oak woodlands have been cleared to build houses, roads, and stores. Some habitat was cleared to grow crops or grass for livestock. Other habitat areas were flooded when large lakes were built. Thire natural habitats are being removed
Bibligraphy: Texas parks and wildlife
Solutions and courses of action for protection
The Golden cheeked Wrbler is being protected by the first major urban habitat plan in the country—the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan. In fact, the 1,140 acres of the Bull Creek Nature Preserve were acquired with the primary goal of protecting the warbler. Whether admired for its own splendor or the unique landscape its listing has helped to preserve, the golden-cheeked warbler is a vital asset to both local ecology and heritage.
Bibliography: Austintexas.gov