Dippers or (Water Ouzels) are usually seen along fast
moving creeks or rivers.
Identification and Pictures
American Dippers (Cinclus mexicanus)
are shaped somewhat like a large wren with a stubby
tail. They have a slate-gray body, long legs and may
have a brownish head. These birds are around 7 to 8 1/2
inches.
They inhabit the mountainous regions of western North America
where they can be seen diving and swimming under water for
aquatic insects and small fish. They get their name from the
constant bobbing.
Photo by Keith Lee using a Canon
EOS Digital Rebel camera.
Dippers have down below dense waterproof feathers.
They waterproof the feathers using a large preen gland. Their blood can
store more oxygen than most passerine birds. These adaptations
plus a clear membrane which can cover the eye allow dippers to
dive and search for food under water.
Dipper sounds
Note on some browsers you will not be able to see or use the
drop down sound list. If you can't use it try the sound
links below.
American Dippers build a bulky nest of moss
with an opening on the side. The nest will be close to
water possibly on the bank of a stream or river. The
female will lay 3 to 6 white eggs which she will incubate for
around 13 to 17 days.
Food
Dippers feed in water on
aquatic insects, small fish and fish eggs.
the side. The nest will be close to
water possibly on the bank of a stream or river. The
female will lay 3 to 6 white eggs which she will incubate for
around 13 to 17 days.
