American Dipper
Image: ntucey (cc-by-nc)
NameAmerican Dipper
Common NameAmerican Dipper
Scientific NameCinclus mexicanus
FamilyCinclidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)52.5
Plumage DetailsUniform slate-gray plumage, often appearing brownish, with a slightly paler head and neck. The bill and legs are dark. When wet, the plumage can appear almost black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, sharp 'jeet' or 'dzit' calls. Males also produce a complex, musical song, especially during the breeding season, which can be heard over the sound of rushing water.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsrivers, streams, mountains
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in western North America, from Alaska and the Yukon south through the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Coast ranges to Panama.
Identifying Featuresuniform dark gray plumage, stocky body with short tail, white flashing eyelids (visible when blinking), characteristic 'dipping' or bobbing motion, found exclusively along fast-flowing, clear mountain streams
Description
The American Dipper is a stocky, slate-gray songbird uniquely adapted to aquatic life in fast-flowing mountain streams. It forages underwater by walking along the streambed or swimming, often performing a characteristic bobbing or 'dipping' motion while perched on rocks.
