The golden-winged warbler nests in young forests and regenerating clearcuts. These habitats have declined significantly due to logging, development, and fire suppression. As a result, the golden-winged warbler has lost much of its breeding range.
Nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds
Brown-headed cowbirds are a brood parasite, meaning that they lay their eggs in the nests of other birds. Golden-winged warblers are particularly susceptible to parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds, and parasitized nests are often unsuccessful.
Competition with blue-winged warblers
Blue-winged warblers are closely related to golden-winged warblers and often compete for the same resources. Blue-winged warblers are more aggressive than golden-winged warblers, and they often outcompete them for food and nesting sites.
Climate change
Climate change is also a threat to the golden-winged warbler. As the climate warms, the warbler's breeding range is shifting northward. This is causing the warbler to come into contact with new predators and competitors, and it is also making it more difficult for the warbler to find suitable nesting sites.