Golden-Cheeked Warbler: 217,444 Males Found Amid Habitat Loss

Govind Tekale

Federal wildlife officials suggest downgrading golden-cheeked warbler from endangered to threatened status after latest population review.

Photo Source: Imani Manyara (Flickr)

The warbler's population surged from 15,000-17,000 in 1990 to 217,444 male birds in 2018, prompting reassessment of its protection needs.

Photo Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife (CC BY 2.0)

This distinctive songbird exclusively nests in central Texas juniper-oak woodlands before migrating to Mexico and Central America

Photo Source: Pixabay (Pixels)

Conservation groups raise alarm as warbler lost nearly one-third of habitat in recent decade despite population growth.

Photo Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife (CC BY 2.0)

Urban expansion, drought, and wildfires continue threatening the species' survival across Texas breeding grounds.

Photo Source: Drew Avery (CC BY 2.0)

Texas General Land Office challenges federal protection, claiming endangered status infringes on state sovereignty and property rights.

Photo Source: Chasity Campbe (Pexels)

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge establishment marked crucial milestone in warbler conservation since 1992.

Photo Source: Richard de Reus (Pexels)

Status change requires Interior Secretary approval followed by mandatory public comment period before 2025 implementation.

Photo Source: Lucas Pezeta (Pexels)

Public invited to share warbler information through dedicated email channel esaustininfo@fws.gov for comprehensive species assessment.

Photo Source: Imani Manyara (Flickr)