Redwing vs Swainson's Warbler

In short

The Redwing and Swainson's Warbler are easily distinguished by their appearance and habitat preferences. The Redwing is a thrush with distinctive red flanks and underwing coverts and a buffy-white supercilium, while Swainson's Warbler is a plain brown warbler with no such markings. Their habitats also differ significantly, with the Redwing favoring open woodlands and the Swainson's Warbler inhabiting dense, swampy forests.

Identification tips

1. Look for the red flanks and underwing coverts on the Redwing. 2. Note the buffy-white supercilium of the Redwing. 3. Observe habitat: Redwing in open areas, Swainson's Warbler in dense, swampy forests. 4. Listen for vocalizations: Redwing's thin notes vs. Swainson's Warbler's melodious song.

Size

The Redwing is larger, similar in size to other thrushes, while Swainson's Warbler is smaller, typical of warblers.

Plumage

Redwing has red flanks and underwing coverts with a buffy-white supercilium. Swainson's Warbler is uniformly brown with no distinctive markings.

Behaviour

Redwings are often seen foraging in open areas or perched in trees. Swainson's Warbler is more secretive, often foraging on the ground in dense vegetation.

Habitat

Redwing inhabits open woodlands and fields, often in colder regions. Swainson's Warbler is found in dense, swampy forests and bottomlands in the southeastern United States.

Voice

Redwing's song is a series of high-pitched, thin notes, while Swainson's Warbler has a loud, clear, and melodious song.