West · Pacific Flyway

Are There Lincoln's Sparrows in California?

Melospiza lincolnii — Passerellidae

UncommonAbundance
Winter visitorSeasonal status
8Active months
156,560Observations

Is the Lincoln's Sparrow Found in California?

Lincoln's Sparrows do occur in California, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat in winter.

Lincoln's Sparrow is a North American backyard bird.

In California, this species is classified as uncommon. It is primarily a winter visitor to California. The best months to observe this bird are January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December. Peak activity occurs in October, November, December.

Monthly Activity — Lincoln's Sparrow in California

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

FamilyPasserellidae
View full Lincoln's Sparrow profile →

Best Time to See Lincoln's Sparrow in California

January
Peak
February
Peak
March
Peak
April
Peak
May
Low
June
Active
July
Low
August
Low
September
Peak
October
Peak
November
Peak
December
Peak

Other birds in California

Birds you might also encounter in California.

Lincoln's Sparrow in other states

Lincoln's Sparrow in California: Quick Facts

The Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii) is an uncommon bird in California. It is classified as a winter visitor in the state, falling within the West region and the Pacific Flyway migration corridor.

The best months to spot this species in California are January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December. For birders in Los Angeles and throughout California, knowing the seasonal patterns of Lincoln's Sparrow can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in California using the related birds section.