Do you know which birds are the most common in California? If not, don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common birds in California. We will provide information on each bird, such as their size, diet, and habitat. We will also include pictures of each bird so that you can easily identify them. So without further ado, let’s get started!
Common Backyard Birds of California:
Spotted Towhee
The Spotted Towhee is a medium-sized bird that is common in open woodlands and scrublands in the western United States. They are easily identified by their black heads, wings, and tails with white spots, as well as their reddish-brown back and breast. These birds typically eat insects and other small invertebrates, but will also eat berries and seeds.
They are generally about 11 inches long and have a wingspan of about 16 inches. Spotted Towhees typically nest in trees or shrubs, laying anywhere from two to six eggs at a time. These birds are not known to migrate but may move to lower elevations in the winter.
During the breeding season, males can often be seen performing a “song flight,” in which they sing while flying from branch to branch. Spotted Towhees are generally shy birds, but will sometimes come close to humans if there is food available.
American Robin
The American robin (Turdus migratorius) is a migratory songbird of the true thrush family. The American robin is widely distributed throughout North America, wintering south of Canada from Florida to central Mexico and along the Pacific Coast.
It is the state bird of Connecticut, Michigan, and Wisconsin. According to some sources, the American robin ranks seventh in abundance out of all the birds in North America.
Adult American Robins are about 20 cm (eight inches) long and have gray-brown upperparts with a reddish breast. The belly is white, and the outer tail feathers are dark with pale tips.
They have a dark head with a light-colored throat and eyes. The bill is black and the legs are reddish-brown. Male and female birds look similar, but juveniles have browner upperparts with little or no red on their breasts.
American Robins are found in open woodlands, gardens, parks, and other habitats with trees. They forage on the ground for earthworms, insects, and other invertebrates. They also eat fruits and berries, especially in the winter.
American Robins are generally monogamous and form pairs before migrating south in the fall. The male Robin performs a courtship display that involves singing, bowing, and flicking his wings.
The nest is built by the female and is usually located in a tree or shrub. The female lays three to five blue eggs, which are incubated for about two weeks. The young birds leave the nest after about three weeks.
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Lesser Goldfinch
The Lesser Goldfinch is a small North American bird in the finch family. It is the state bird of New Mexico. The adult male has a black cap and wings, with a yellow body and tail. Females and juveniles are duller overall, with greenish-brown upperparts and pale gray underparts.
The Lesser Goldfinch is a small North American bird in the finch family. It is the state bird of New Mexico. The adult male has a black cap and wings, with a yellow body and tail. Females and juveniles are duller overall, with greenish-brown upperparts and pale gray underparts.
The Lesser Goldfinch is found in open woodlands, scrub, and gardens from central Alaska to northwestern Costa Rica. It is a year-round resident in much of its range, although some northern birds may migrate south for the winter. The Lesser Goldfinch feeds on seeds and insects. It often hangs upside down while feeding on thistle seed heads.
The Lesser Goldfinch are a tiny birds, measuring only about four inches long. It has a wingspan of six to seven inches. The Lesser Goldfinch is one of the smallest North American birds.
The Lesser Goldfinch is found in open woodlands, scrub, and gardens from central Alaska to northwestern Costa Rica. It feeds on seeds and insects. The Lesser Goldfinch is a small bird, measuring only about four inches long. It has a wingspan of six to seven inches. The Lesser Goldfinch is one of the smallest North American birds.
Northern mockingbirds
Northern mockingbirds are grayish-brown above and white below. They have a long, dark tail with white outer feathers, and white wing bars. They have a gray head with a black cap and bill. They are about 11 inches long.
Their diet consists of insects, fruits, and berries. They forage on the ground or in shrubs for insects. In winter, they eat more fruits and berries.
Northern mockingbirds are found in open woodlands, fields, and suburbs. They build their nests in trees or shrubs.
Behavior: Northern mockingbirds are known for their vocal abilities. They sing a variety of songs that can last up to 15 minutes. They also imitate the sounds of other birds and animals. Northern mockingbirds are also known to be aggressive towards other birds and animals. They will defend their territory by chasing away intruders.
The northern mockingbird is the state bird of Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. It is also the official city bird of Mobile, Alabama and Memphis, Tennessee.
Dark-eyed Junco
Dark-eyed Juncos are small sparrows with slate-blue upperparts, white underparts, and a pink bill. They have a dark head with a white eyebrow. The wings are brown with white bars. The tail is long and brown with white outer feathers.
Dark-eyed Juncos are found in forests, woodlands, and gardens. They eat insects, seeds, and berries. Dark-eyed Juncos are about five inches long.
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small sparrow with slate-blue upperparts, white underparts, and a pink bill. The head is dark with a white eyebrow. The wings are brown with white bars. The tail is long and brown with white outer feathers.
The Dark-eyed Junco is found in forests, woodlands, and gardens. It eats insects, seeds, and berries. The Dark-eyed Junco is about five inches long.
Mourning Doves
Mourning Doves are common birds in California. They are usually gray and white, with a long tail and pointed wings. Mourning Doves eat seeds, fruits, and insects. They build their nests in trees or on the ground.
Mourning Doves are about 12 inches long. Their tails are about half as long as their bodies. Males and females look alike. Juvenile birds are browner than adults.
Mourning Doves live in open areas with some trees, such as fields, farms, and parks. They are found across North America.
Mourning Doves are gentle birds. They coo softly to communicate. When they take off from the ground, they make a whistling sound with their wings. Mourning Doves mate for life. Both parents care for the young birds.
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Golden-crowned Sparrow
Golden-crowned Sparrows are small songbirds with brown upperparts and grayish-brown underparts. They have a yellow forehead and a black stripe through their eye. Their bill is pink with a dark tip. Males and females look alike.
Golden-crowned Sparrows eat insects, seeds, and berries. They forage on the ground in open habitats such as fields, meadows, parks, and road edges.
Golden-crowned Sparrows are about five inches long. They have a wingspan of eight inches.
In the summer, Golden-crowned Sparrows breed in Alaska and northern Canada. In the winter, they migrate to southern Canada and the western United States.
Golden-crowned Sparrows are social birds. They often travel in flocks and sing in chorus. Their song is a series of high, thin notes. males sing to defend their territories and attract mates. Females build nests made of grass, twigs, leaves, and moss.
They line the nest with hair or feathers. Females lay three to five eggs per clutch. Eggs are pale blue with brown spots. both parents feed the young birds until they are old enough to fend for themselves.
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Yellow-rumped Warbler
(Setophaga coronata) is a small songbird with a distinctive yellow rump. These warblers are common in many parts of North America, including California. Yellow-rumped warblers are relatively small birds, measuring about 14 cm in length and weighing around 20 g.
Their plumage is mostly grayish-brown above and pale below, with yellow streaks on the breast and flanks. As their name suggests, they have a yellow patch on their rump, which is often visible when they are in flight.
These warblers are mostly insectivorous, although they will also eat berries and other small fruits. Their breeding habitat is mixed woodlands across North America.
Yellow-rumped warblers are generally monogamous, meaning that they form pairs with only one mate. However, if their first mate dies, they will quickly find a new partner. These birds typically nest in tree cavities or on ledges.
Yellow-rumped warblers are generally shy and secretive birds. They are often difficult to spot, as they often stay hidden in the trees. However, their characteristic song, which is a series of clear whistles, is often heard in forests across North America.
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Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbirds are small, brightly colored bird. The male has greenish-black upperparts, a glittering green throat, and a reddish belly. The female is similar to the male, but her throat is white with some red streaks. Anna’s Hummingbirds are found in western North America from Alaska to Mexico.
They live in open woodlands, gardens, and parks. These birds eat nectar from flowers and insects. They are able to hover in mid-air while they feed. Anna’s Hummingbirds are named after Anna Massena, Duchess of Rivoli.
These birds are also sometimes called “flying jewels” because of their bright colors.
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Song Sparrow
Song Sparrows are one of the most widespread birds in California, and they’re also one of the easiest to identify. With their streaked brown plumage, white belly, and rusty breast, they’re unmistakable. And they’re not just found in fields and meadows; these adaptable birds can live in a wide range of habitats, from forests to deserts.
Sparrows are small birds, measuring only about five or six inches in length. They have a relatively short tail and stout bill. Their diet consists mostly of seeds, but they will also eat insects and other small invertebrates.
Song Sparrows typically nest in trees or shrubs, often close to the ground. They build their nests out of grass, twigs, and other plant material. These birds are not particularly social, but they will sometimes form small flocks outside of the breeding season.
Song Sparrows are relatively quiet birds, but as their name suggests, they do sing a beautiful song. Their song is a series of trills and warbles, often ending with a sharp “chip” note. These birds are also known for their mimicry, and they can imitate the songs of other bird species.
California Towhee
The California towhee is a medium-sized bird that is common in chaparral and other scrub habitats in California. This bird has a brown back, rusty wings, and a streaked breast. The towhee’s diet consists mostly of insects, but it will also eat berries and seeds.
These birds are usually found on the ground, foraging for food. California towhees are generally not shy around humans and will often approach people in search of food. These birds are also known to make a loud, harsh “chink” sound. The California towhee is a state bird of California.
The best way to identify a California towhee is by its unique song, which is a loud, harsh “chink.” Other identifying characteristics include its brown back, rusty wings, and streaked breast. This bird is also relatively large for a towhee, measuring about 11 inches in length.
The California towhee typically lives in chaparral and other scrub habitats in California. These birds are often found on the ground, foraging for food. They will also visit gardens and other areas where there are plenty of insects to eat.
European Starlings
European Starlings are small to medium-sized birds with short necks and long, pointed beaks. They are black with iridescent green, blue, and purple feathers. They have a wingspan of about 16 inches (41 cm) and weigh between 0.88-0.99 ounces (25-28 g).
European Starlings are found in open woodlands, farmland, and urban areas. They eat insects, earthworms, berries, and fruits.
European Starlings are social birds that often form large flocks. They are known for their vocalizations and mimicry. They are also aggressive towards other birds and will take over their nests. European Starlings are not native to North America but were introduced in the 1890s. They are now one of the most common birds in California.
European Starlings can be a nuisance because they compete with native birds for food and nest sites. They also eat crops, which can damage agriculture. European Starlings are considered an invasive species in North America.
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American Crow
American Crows are massive birds, with a wingspan that can reach up to six feet. Their feathers are black with white stripes on the tips of their wings. They have a large, hooked beak that they use to tear apart their prey. These birds are found near water sources in California, such as ponds and lakes.
They typically eat fish, but will also eat amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. American Crows are highly intelligent birds, and have been known to use tools to help them obtain food. They are also very social creatures, living in large groups called “roosts.” During the day, these roosts can number in the thousands of birds.
At night, they will fly to a roosting site, where they will all huddle together for warmth. American Crows are interesting and unique birds that are fun to watch.
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House Finch
The house finch is a small bird with a reddish brown body and white underparts. The male has a red head and breast, while the female is more drab. These birds are found in open woodlands, gardens, and parks throughout California. They eat seeds, berries, and insects.
House finches build nests of twigs, grass, and hair in trees or on buildings. They typically lay four to six eggs per clutch. These birds are active during the day and are often seen at bird feeders. House finches are known for their cheerful singing.
The house finch is a small bird with a reddish brown body and white underparts. The male has a red head and breast, while the female is more drab. These birds are found in open woodlands, gardens, and parks throughout California. They eat seeds, berries, and insects.
House finches build nests of twigs, grass, and hair in trees or on buildings. They typically lay four to six eggs per clutch. These birds are active during the day and are often seen at bird feeders. House finches are known for their cheerful singing.
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Bushtit
Grosbeak is a beautiful bird that is found in California. It has black, gray, and white feathers that make it stand out in a crowd. This bird is also unique because of its long beak. The Bushtit Grosbeak is a medium sized bird that typically measures between six and eight inches in length. This bird has a diet that consists of black oil sunflower seeds, fruits, and insects.
The Bushtit Grosbeak typically inhabits wooded areas near streams or rivers. This bird is also known to be quite territorial and will often chase other birds away from its territory. The Bushtit Grosbeak is an interesting bird that is sure to add some beauty to your California backyard.
California Scrub-Jay
The California Scrub-Jay is a small bird with blue upperparts and a white underbelly. They have a crest on their head and a long tail. They are found in open woodlands, scrublands, and chaparral in California. Scrub-Jays are omnivorous and eat insects, acorns, berries, and nuts.
They are known to cache food for later consumption. Scrub-Jays are social birds and live in small family groups. They are curious birds and will often approach humans. California Scrub-Jays mate for life and both parents help care for the young.
Black Phoebe
Black Phoebes males have a black body with white underparts. Their wings and tails are darker than their body. Black Phoebes females have gray-brown upperparts and pale underparts. Both sexes have a black bill and yellow eyes.
Black Phoebes are small birds that measure about six to seven inches in length. They weigh between eighteen and twenty-five grams.
Black Phoebes are found in open habitats near water sources such as streams, ponds, lakes, and marshes. They also inhabit woodlands, gardens, and urban areas.
Black Phoebes are insectivores and primarily eat flies. They will also consume other small invertebrates such as spiders, ants, and beetles.
Black Phoebes are monogamous birds that mate for life. Both the male and female help to construct the nest which is typically made out of moss, twigs, grass, and leaves. The nest is built on a ledge or in a tree cavity.
White-crowned Sparrow
White-crowned Sparrows are medium-sized sparrows with a white stripe on their head. They have a light brown back and wings with dark spots. Their belly is white with dark streaking. Adult White-crowned Sparrows measure about six inches long.
White-crowned Sparrows eat mostly black oil sunflower seeds, but they will also eat insects. They forage on the ground, in low bushes, and in trees.
White-crowned Sparrows breed in open areas with some shrubs or trees nearby. Their nests are made of grasses, bark strips, and feathers lined with hair or fine grasses. Both parents help build the nest and care for the young.
White-crowned Sparrows are found in North America from Alaska to Mexico. In California, they are year-round residents in the Sierra Nevada and coastal mountains. They can also be found in open woodlands, meadows, and gardens.
During the day, White-crowned Sparrows sing a clear, thrilling song. They are also known to give a loud “chip” call when alarmed. When breeding, the male White-crowned Sparrow will perform a flight display with singing and wing flicking. This display is used to attract a mate and ward off other males.
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Ruby-crowned Kinglet
The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a small songbird with a length of about five inches. The adult male has a ruby red crown, while the female and juvenile kinglets have greenish crowns. These birds are mostly plain gray birds with white wing bars and a yellowish undertail. Their diet consists of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates.
Ruby-crowned Kinglets are found in forests throughout North America, including California. They prefer coniferous or mixed forests, but can also be found in deciduous woods and scrublands. These birds are constantly active, foraging for food among the branches and leaves of trees.
Although they are often heard singing, their song is a high-pitched twitter rather than a melody. The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a common breeding bird in California and can be seen year-round in many parts of the state.
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Downy Woodpecker
(Picoides pubescens)
The downy woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker in North America, measuring just six to seven inches in length. They have black and white plumage with a small patch of red on the back of their head. Downy woodpeckers are found in forests throughout North America.
Their diet consists mainly of insects, but they will also eat berries and nuts. Downy woodpeckers nest in tree cavities. Both male and female downy woodpeckers will drill holes in trees to create a nest. They are also known to use abandoned nests of other birds.
Downy woodpeckers are very active birds and can often be seen hopping around on tree trunks and branches in search of food. They are also known for their loud drumming, which they use to communicate with other downy woodpeckers.
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American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a small North American songbird. males have a black cap and wings with yellow bars, while females are duller in coloration. They are often found in open woodlands and weedy fields. Their diet consists mainly of black oil sunflower seeds, but they will also eat insects.
They are usually about five inches long and have a wingspan of eight inches. American Goldfinches are social birds and often travel in flocks. They are known for their cheerful song, which is often used in birding recordings.
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House Sparrow
House Sparrows are one of the most common birds in California. They’re easily distinguished by their plump bodies and grayish-brown feathers. The males have a black bib on their chest, while the females have a brown streaked chest. House Sparrows are usually about six inches long and weigh around an ounce.
House Sparrows are found in nearly every habitat, from cities to rural areas. They’re especially fond of nesting near human dwellings. In fact, they will often build their nests in cracks and crevices around houses and other buildings.
House Sparrows are seed eaters, but they will also consume insects, particularly when feeding their young. They typically forage on the ground, but they will also feed from birdfeeders.
House Sparrows are generally found in flocks. They’re not shy birds, and will often approach humans. However, they can be aggressive towards other birds, particularly when defending their nesting territory.
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What birds are only found in California?
There are a few birds that are only found in California! The California condor, for example, is a large vulture that can only be found in the Golden State.
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Another unique bird to California is the mountain quail. This small bird has a plume of feathers on its head and can be found in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
What is the most common bird in California?
The most common bird in California is the American crow. These crows are found all across the state and are known for their intelligence. They are also known to be very adaptable, which has helped them thrive in a variety of habitats. Other common birds in California include the house finch, Anna’s hummingbird, and the western scrub jay.
What are the little brown birds in California?
There are a few different types of little brown birds in California. Some of the more common ones include the house finch, the sparrow, and the junco. These birds are all relatively small in size and have brown wing feathers. They can often be found in urban areas, as well as in forests and other natural habitats.
How many types of birds are in California?
There are more than 800 types of birds in California! This includes both native and non-native species. Some of the more common ones include the American crow, the house finch, Anna’s hummingbird, and the western scrub jay. California is also home to a variety of unique bird species, such as the mountain quail and the California condor.
What is a native bird of California?
There are several native bird species in California. Some of the more common ones include the American crow, the house finch, Anna’s hummingbird, and the western scrub jay. California is also home to a variety of unique bird species, such as the mountain quail and the California condor.
What are common birds in southern California?
Some of the more common birds in southern California include the house finch, Anna’s hummingbird, and the western scrub jay. Southern California is also home to a variety of unique bird species, such as the mountain quail and the California condor.
Bird Feeders
One way to attract birds to your yard is by setting up a bird feeder. Bird feeders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be made from a variety of materials. The most important thing to consider when choosing a bird feeder is what type of food you will be offering the birds.
Some common bird foods include black oil sunflower seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects. You can also purchase special bird food mixes from your local pet or hardware store.
Another thing to consider when setting up backyard feeders is where you will place it. It’s important to choose a spot that is away from trees and other potential perches for predators. You should also place and visit bird feeders in an area where you can easily see them so that you can enjoy watching the birds!
Hummingbird feeders are a great way to attract these fascinating birds to your yard!
