Cinclus mexicanus
The American Dipper, Cinclus mexicanus, is a fascinating and unique songbird, renowned as the only truly aquatic passerine in North America. Measuring approximately 14-17 cm (5.5-6.7 inches) in length with a wingspan of 23-28 cm (9-11 inches) and weighing 50-75 grams (1.8-2.6 oz), this stout bird is uniformly slate gray, often appearing slightly browner on the head. Its most distinctive field marks include a short, stubby tail, long legs, a slender, slightly upturned dark bill, and striking w...
Primarily inhabits clear, cold, fast-flowing mountain streams and rivers, from sea level in northern regions to high elevations of over 4,000 meters in the tropics.
Feeds almost exclusively on aquatic invertebrates, including larvae of caddisflies, stoneflies, and mayflies, supplemented by small fish and fish eggs.
American Dippers are diurnal birds, actively foraging throughout the day and roosting in sheltered spots along the stream bank or beneath bridges at night. Their foraging strategy is unparalleled among songbirds: they walk along the streambed, dive headfirst into rapids, and even use their wings ...
The American Dipper's extensive range spans western North America and parts of Central America, primarily associated with mountainous regions. It is a year-round resident from Alaska and Yukon south through the Rocky Mountains to Arizona and New Mexico, and along the Pacific Coast from Alaska dow...
Least Concern
- The American Dipper is the only North American songbird that can swim, dive, and walk completely underwater. - It possesses a special nictitating membrane (a transparent third eyelid) that acts like goggles, allowing it to see clearly while submerged. - Dippers have a remarkably dense plumage a...