Regulus satrapa, commonly known as the Golden-crowned Kinglet, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution spans across Canada, the United States, and parts of Mexico. This bird species can predominantly be found in the coniferous forests of Canada, the mountains of the western United States, and extending into northern Mexico during the breeding season.

The Golden-crowned Kinglet typically inhabits boreal and coniferous forests characterized by dense canopy cover of spruce, fir, and other coniferous trees. The environment is generally cool and moist, reflecting the bird's preference for forested regions with abundant conifer trees. In winter, some populations migrate to mixed forests, including broadleaf trees, where environmental conditions are milder.

Regulus satrapa occupies a niche within the forest canopy, where it feeds on insects and small arthropods. Its small size and agile movement enable it to forage amongst the foliage and branches of trees. Duirng winter, it expands its diet to include seeds and berries, demonstrating adaptability in its ecological role.