By Avian Feathers Team
Published June 2025
California is a birdwatcher’s dream. From beaches to mountains, deserts to backyards, there’s always something flapping, chirping or singing nearby.
You don’t need to go far. Just step outside, look up or listen closely. You might be surprised by how many feathered friends are around.
1. California Scrub-Jay
These bold blue birds are full of personality. You’ll often see them hopping around trees or calling loudly from a fence.
They are curious, clever and not afraid to visit backyards for peanuts. Their deep blue feathers and noisy nature make them easy to spot.
Size
Length: 11–12 inches.
Wingspan: 15 inches.
Weight: 2.5–3.5 ounces.
Scientific Name: Aphelocoma californica
2. American Robin
With a bright orange belly and cheerful song, the American Robin is a backyard favorite. You’ll find them hopping around lawns, looking for worms.
Their song is one of the first signs of spring. Robins are friendly and familiar, like little signs of home.
Size
Length: 9–11 inches.
Wingspan: 12–16 inches.
Weight: 2.3–3 ounces.
Scientific Name: Turdus migratorius
3. Anna's Hummingbird
Tiny, fast and full of sparkle. Anna’s Hummingbirds are common along the California coast and love gardens with flowers.
Males flash bright pink throats when the sun hits just right. You’ll often hear their buzzing wings before you see them.
Size
Length: 3.9 inches.
Wingspan: 4.7 inches.
Weight: 0.1–0.2 ounces.
Scientific Name: Calypte anna
4. Mourning Dove
These soft-colored birds have a gentle look and a sorrowful cooing call. Mourning Doves are often found on fences, wires or quietly walking around on the ground.
When they fly, their wings make a distinct whistling sound. Peaceful and calm, they’re a common sight across the state.
Size
Length: 9–13 inches.
Wingspan: 17–18 inches.
Weight: 4–6 ounces.
Scientific Name: Zenaida macroura
5. House Finch
These little birds are red-faced and cheerful. Males have rosy red heads and chests, while females are more streaky brown.
They love feeders and city life and sing a bubbly, happy tune. You’ll often see them in pairs or small flocks.
Size
Length: 5–6 inches.
Wingspan: 8–10 inches.
Weight: 0.6–0.9 ounces.
Scientific Name: Haemorhous mexicanus
6. Northern Mockingbird
Mockingbirds are expert mimics. They copy the songs of other birds and string them together into long, impressive performances.
You’ll find them perched on rooftops, fences or treetops, singing loudly day and night. They are bold, musical and full of attitude.
Size
Length: 8–11 inches.
Wingspan: 12–15 inches.
Weight: 1.5–2 ounces.
Scientific Name: Mimus polyglottos
7. Lesser-Goldfinch
These bright yellow birds are small but energetic. Lesser Goldfinches love hanging out in flocks and feeding on seeds.
Males have shiny black caps and backs, while females are a softer yellow. They bring a splash of sunshine to any garden.
Size
Length: 4–5 inches.
Wingspan: 8 inches.
Weight: 0.3–0.4 ounces.
Scientific Name: Spinus psaltria
8. Black Phoebe
Always dressed in black and white, Black Phoebes are common near water. They wag their tails and perch patiently before flying out to catch insects mid-air.
Their sharp “chip” call is easy to recognize. You’ll often spot them near fountains, ponds or streams.
Size
Length: 6–7 inches.
Wingspan: 10.5–11 inches.
Weight: 0.5–0.8 ounces.
Scientific Name: Sayornis nigricans
9. European Starling
These birds sparkle in the sun with green and purple feathers. They travel in big, noisy flocks and can be seen just about anywhere.
Though not native to California, they’ve made themselves right at home. Their whistling and clicking calls are hard to miss.
Size
Length: 7.5–9 inches.
Wingspan: 12–17 inches.
Weight: 2–3.5 ounces.
Scientific Name: Sturnus vulgaris
10. Song Sparrow
Small, brown and streaky, Song Sparrows may not look flashy — but they sure can sing. Each one has a slightly different tune.
They love brushy areas, wetlands and backyard hedges. If you pause and listen, you might be treated to their sweet, detailed songs
Size
Length: 28–40 inches
Wingspan: 6–8 feet
Weight: 6–14 pounds
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus Leucocephalus
Small, brown and streaky, Song Sparrows may not look flashy, but they sure can sing. Each one has a slightly different tune.
They love brushy areas, wetlands and backyard hedges. If you pause and listen, you might be treated to their sweet, detailed songs.
Where to Spot Common Birds in California
You don’t need to venture far into the wilderness to enjoy California’s birdlife. Many of the most common and beloved species are right outside your door, thriving in a variety of accessible habitats. Here’s where you can typically find them:
Your Own Backyard, Gardens & Suburban Areas: This is often the best place to start! You’ll frequently encounter the California Scrub-Jay hopping around, the cheerful American Robin on your lawn, the buzzing Anna’s Hummingbird at your feeders or flowers, and the colorful House Finch and Lesser Goldfinch in flocks. The singing Song Sparrow often frequents backyard hedges and brushy areas.
Local Parks & Green Spaces: These public areas are fantastic for birdwatching. Expect to see American Robins foraging on lawns, Mourning Doves cooing from wires, and Northern Mockingbirds singing loudly from treetops. European Starlings, though non-native, are ubiquitous in parks and urban settings, often in large, noisy flocks.
Near Water Sources (Ponds, Streams, Fountains): The striking black and white Black Phoebe is almost always found near water, patiently perching and darting out to catch insects. You might also spot Mourning Doves and American Robins coming to drink.
Open Fields & Agricultural Areas: Mourning Doves and American Robins are frequent visitors to open ground. European Starlings are also common in these areas, especially in large groups.
Brushy Areas & Hedges: The discreet but melodious Song Sparrow loves these dense spots, providing a challenge for identification by sight but a delight for the ears.
Birdwatching in California doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes the best birds are right outside your window.
Which ones have you seen lately? Or which would you love to spot next?