They may be found in both undisturbed or disturbed woodlands with dense understory, often near canopy gaps produced by fallen trees or other disturbances. Where there is overlap at the lower elevations, the Hermit Thrush appears to dominate over the Swainson's Thrush. The Swainson's Thrush has a large range and is very common in many areas, yet it is experiencing steady population declines in regions such as California and the Maritime provinces. It is of conservation importance because of its association with many types of coniferous as well as riparian forests for breeding, and because of its vulnerability to tropical deforestation in South America. Understanding how habitat requirements and sensitivity to fragmentation varies over its large range will be important for conserving future populations.
Breast slightly buffy with dark spots, brownish-gray sides and flanks.
The Pacific Coast forms are reddish-brown above and less distinctly spotted below. Same as male. Pale buffy eye-ring. A slurred series of notes spiraling upward in pitch, rather than tumbling downward like the Veery. Often sings at night.