American Dipper
NameAmerican Dipper
Common NameAmerican Dipper
Scientific NameCinclus mexicanus
FamilyCinclidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsUniform slate gray plumage, often appearing slightly brownish on the head and neck. It has a short tail and pale eyelids that flash white when the bird blinks.
Vocalization / CallA loud, clear, ringing 'zeet' or 'jeep' call, often given in flight or when agitated. Their song is a varied series of whistles and trills.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain streams, rivers, riparian zones
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from Alaska and western Canada south through the western United States and into Central America.
Identifying Featuresstocky build, uniform dark gray plumage, short tail, white flashing eyelids, habit of dipping and walking underwater, found exclusively in fast-flowing streams
Description
The American Dipper is a unique, stocky, dark gray songbird found along clear, fast-flowing mountain streams. It is known for its distinctive bobbing or "dipping" motion and its remarkable ability to walk and forage underwater.
