A brightly patterned sparrow restricted to saltmarshes on the Atlantic coast. Perches in the open when singing, otherwise secretive. Can be fairly common in certain spots. Similar to Nelson's Sparrow and often found wintering in the same habitat, but note bright orange face contrasting with white throat, and pale buffy wash on underparts with fine black streaks. Bill averages longer than Nelson's Sparrow. Song is a quiet sequence of hisses, gurgles, and tinkling notes.