An eastern North American sparrow, but breeds in the northeast corner of B.C. Migrates south to the southern states and into Mexico. Birds that breed in B.C. typically journey southwards to the east of the Rockies. Almost an annual migrant in the Lower Mainland. Sometimes will winter on the coast. Only five records for the checklist area to date. Likes marshy habitats.

Similar species:
Song Sparrow and LIncoln's Sparrow are similar. Swamp Sparrow is similar in size and shape to Lincoln's Sparrow. Note Swamp Sparrow's lack of defined streaks on breast and flanks and rufous wings. Makes a kind of hard-metallic 'chip' call.

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Sibley, D. (2000)

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