The Swamp Sparrow is a common but elusive breeder in the marshes and wet meadows across most of Canada. The Breeding Bird Survey suggests a moderate increase in the population relative to about 1970. Though this species is abundant and somewhat adaptable, draining and filling of wetlands are a potential cause for concern (Mowbray 1997). With over 90% of the global breeding population, Canada's responsibility for the Swamp Sparrow is very high. This species has been identified as a priority for conservation and/or stewardship in one or more Bird Conservation Region Strategies in Canada.
The Swamp Sparrow is currently not targeted by any management plan, however it likely benefits from the North American Waterfowl Management Plan through the restoration and conservation of large wetlands, on which it depends for prime breeding habitat (Mowbray 1997). The Swamp Sparrow's wetland habitats continue to decline across North America (Harms and Dinsmore 2015) but currently there are no conservation concerns for the species.
Environment and Climate Change Canada and partners have developed Bird Conservation Region Strategies in each of Canada’s Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs). In these strategies, selected species are identified as priorities for one or more of the following reasons:
Select any of the sub-regions below to view the BCR strategy for additional details.