Melospiza georgiana, commonly known as the Swamp Sparrow, is native to North America, primarily found in Canada and the United States. The species is predominantly distributed across the northeastern United States and the southern parts of Canada. Its range extends from the eastern sections of the continent to the central regions, with migratory patterns leading some populations to winter in the southeastern United States.

The Swamp Sparrow typically inhabits wetland environments such as marshes, swamps, and bogs. These areas are characterized by standing water, dense vegetation, and muddy substrates. The species is well adapted to environments where cattails, reeds, and other marsh vegetation are prevalent, often associating with lowland freshwater habitats.

As a bird species that forages primarily in dense, wetland vegetation, the Swamp Sparrow occupies an ecological niche that involves feeding on a diet of insects and seeds. Its physical adaptations, including long legs and a strong build, allow it to navigate and forage effectively within its wetland habitat. Seasonal changes in food availability lead to slight variations in diet, with a preference for insect larvae during breeding seasons and seeds or marsh plant materials in other periods.