Higher warbler densities are associated with greater average tree height, greater variability in tree heights, and greater density of deciduous trees. Golden-cheeked Warblers have been found in patches of habitat smaller than 12 acres, although they are believed to do better in larger tracts. With increasingly fragmented habitat, smaller patches may become more important to warblers, particularly those located near areas of occupied habitat. The Golden-cheeked Warbler's entire nesting range is currently confined to about 33 counties in central Texas. Although nests may be placed in various species of trees, such as juniper, Texas oak, live oak, and cedar elm, all nests contain strips of Ashe juniper bark woven together with spider webs.
Warblers feed almost entirely on caterpillars, spiders, beetles, and other insects found in foliage.
The birds are thought to take advantage of insect blooms associated with different plants as the growing season progresses. For example, broad-leaved trees and shrubs, especially oaks, are particularly important in providing habitat for insects during the first part of the nesting season. Later in the season, warblers are frequently seen foraging in Ashe juniper. Depending on the location and quality of habitat, Golden-cheeked Warblers forage and nest in areas of habitat ranging in size from five to 20 acres per pair. Nesting territories range in size from three to six acres.