Brown Dipper
NameBrown Dipper
Common NameBrown Dipper
Scientific NameCinclus pallasii
FamilyCinclidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsEntirely dark brown plumage, often appearing almost blackish, with slightly darker wings and tail. There are no prominent markings or color variations across the body.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp, metallic 'zit' or 'dzit' call, often given in flight or alarm. Its song is a varied, musical warble, sometimes incorporating harsh notes, typically delivered from a prominent perch near water.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Eastern Palearctic, from Central Asia through the Himalayas, China, Korea, Japan, and parts of Southeast Asia, always associated with clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams.
Identifying FeaturesUniform dark brown plumage, Stocky body with a short tail, Habit of 'dipping' or bobbing while perched, Found exclusively along fast-flowing rivers and streams, Pale bill and legs
Description
The Brown Dipper is a stocky, uniformly dark brown aquatic songbird found along fast-flowing mountain streams. It is known for its unique behavior of walking and diving underwater to forage for food.
