Goldfinches in California.......migratory?

Question

Are goldfinches in California a migratory bird? I had a thistle feeder up for like 6 months, they finally found it and were emptying it every 2 days to where I had to buy a second one and there were still birds waiting their turn in the tree or on the ground. Now, there are suddenly NONE (when there used to be at least 10 every time I looked)
Are these birds migratory to central California, and if so, what month should I expect them to return?

Answer 1

There are three species of Goldfinches in California, American, Lesser and Lawrences. All of them should be around all year. I think I know whats going, though. Here in Texas Goldfinches will come into feeders until February and March. Then they return in late April and May. What they are doing is feeding on budding trees, especially elms here in Texas. As soon as the trees leaf out they return. Be patient! They will be back a bit later in Spring.