Even though people will tell you that the American Robin isn’t a migratory bird in the strict sense, you still get lots of people saying that they’re seeing more as we get closer to spring. So, what gives? Is it migratory or not? Are we seeing more or are we just imagining it? The answer is a little of both. Some Robins will head to Southern California or Mexico in the winter, and some head to Canada to breed. However, a great many Robins will both winter and breed in the Lower 48. That isn’t to say that they won’t move around quite a bit. In fact, the opposite is true. The Robin is a true wanderer. Sometimes a change in season will prompt them to change altitude or search a different locale for food. As far as spring goes, it is entirely possible that you might see more Robins as the ones from Mexico head north. Or the "new" Robins you're seeing might just be from another part of the county. (photo by Dave Menke/USFWS)