The Golden-cheeked Warbler is a small, migratory songbird, 4.5 to 5 inches long, with a wingspan of about 8 inches.
Females are similar, but less colorful.
The lower breast and belly of both sexes are white with black streaks on the flanks. This type of woodland generally grows in relatively moist areas such as steep-sided canyons and slopes. A mix of juniper and deciduous trees on the slopes, along drainage bottoms, and in creeks and draws provide an ideal mix of vegetation for these birds. It is important to note that not all woodlands, such as those described above, are used by Golden-cheeked Warblers. Warblers need a combination of mature Ashe juniper and hardwood trees in their nesting habitat.