Based on 72,126 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Black Phoebe is most often recorded in April; in California it behaves like a year-round resident. It ranks #5 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Sayornis nigricans
Black Phoebe in California by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in California in April

Mallard
House Finch
Anna's Hummingbird
Canada Goose

California Towhee

Mourning Dove

Red-tailed Hawk
California Scrub-Jay
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Angeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Black Phoebe appear in California?
Mainly March–February, with the most records in April.
How common is Black Phoebe in California?
It ranks #5 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in California (72,126 records in our sample).