One of the more popular birds that one is likely to see in California is the Common Yellowthroat. In many parts of the state, the bird is a year-round pleasure, a non-migrant. But spring nonetheless does bring a lot of activity for those Common Yellowthroats that do feel the need to be someplace else. This wonderful bird has a broad North American presence. While some populations in the southern states are resident, there are a great number of birds that spend the winter in Mexico and then head up to Canada in the spring for breeding. During April and May in California, one sees a spike in Common Yellowthroats in California as birds passing through mix with those staying put or simply moving around within the state. Pictured above is a resident Common Yellowthroat, sometimes known as a Salt Marsh Yellowthroat. (photo by Glen Tepke)