American Dipper
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/9765210@N03">dominic sherony</a> (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameAmerican Dipper
Common NameAmerican Dipper
Scientific NameCinclus mexicanus
FamilyCinclidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsUniformly slate-gray plumage, often appearing slightly browner on the head and neck. It has a short tail and sturdy legs. White eyelids are visible when the bird blinks.
Vocalization / CallA loud, clear, ringing song consisting of a series of whistles and trills, often described as 'zeet zeet' or 'cheer-cheer-cheer'. It also gives sharp 'dzit' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain streams, rivers, waterfalls
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from Alaska and the Yukon south through the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Coast ranges to Central America.
Identifying FeaturesUniform slate-gray plumage, Stocky body with short tail, Characteristic bobbing or 'dipping' motion, Found exclusively along fast-flowing, clear water, Ability to walk and swim underwater, White eyelids visible when blinking
Description
The American Dipper is a stocky, slate-gray songbird uniquely adapted to aquatic life, often seen along fast-flowing mountain streams. It forages by walking underwater, using its wings to propel itself against the current, and is known for its characteristic bobbing motion.
