Based on 24,175 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Golden-crowned Sparrow is most often recorded in January; in California it behaves like a winter visitor. It ranks #42 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Zonotrichia atricapilla
Golden-crowned Sparrow 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 January
Red-tailed Hawk
White-crowned Sparrow
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Anna's Hummingbird
American Coot
Black Phoebe
Great Egret
Great Blue Heron
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Golden-crowned Sparrow appear in California?
Mainly October–April, with the most records in January.
How common is Golden-crowned Sparrow in California?
It ranks #42 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in California (24,175 records in our sample).