The Swamp sparrow uses wet areas that have thick vegetation for cover. Several glimpses of this reclusive bird may be required before it can safely be separated from Lincoln's sparrow or the more common Song sparrow, though its distinctive call will give it away to observers familiar with it. Chestnut coloration on the wing coverts helps separate this species from other wintering sparrows.

The Swamp swallow is a rare to uncommon spring and fall transient and winter visitant in western Oregon, especially along the coast.

Hear the song of the Swamp sparrow

Photo from USFWS