American Dipper
NameAmerican Dipper
Common NameAmerican Dipper
Scientific NameCinclus mexicanus
FamilyCinclidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsUniform dark gray plumage, often appearing brownish, with a slightly paler head and neck. It has a short tail and a stout body. White eyelids are visible when the bird blinks.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a loud, clear, ringing 'zeet' or 'jeep'. The song is a bubbling, musical series of whistles and trills, often sung even in winter.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsfast-flowing rivers, mountain streams, rocky shores
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from Alaska and western Canada south through the western United States and into Central America, typically in mountainous regions.
Identifying Featuresdark gray plumage, stocky body, short tail, constantly bobs/dips its body, found in fast-flowing water, white eyelids (visible when blinking)
Description
The American Dipper is a stocky, dark gray songbird found along clear, fast-flowing mountain streams. It is unique among passerines for its ability to walk underwater on stream bottoms, foraging for aquatic insects and small fish.
