American Dipper
A species of Dippers, Also known as North American Dipper, Arctic Water Ouzel Scientific name : Cinclus mexicanus Genus : Dippers
American Dipper, A species of Dippers
Also known as:
North American Dipper, Arctic Water Ouzel
Botanical name: Cinclus mexicanus
Genus: Dippers
Content
Description People often ask General Info
Photo By Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater. The song consists of high whistles or trills peee peee pijur pijur repeated a few times. Both sexes of this bird sing year round. 
Size
18 - 20 cm
Life Expectancy
5 years
Nest Placement
Cliff
Clutch Size
4 - 5 eggs
Incubation Period
1 - 2 broods
Number of Broods
14 - 17 days
Nestling Period
24 - 26 days
Feeding Habits
American Dipper primarily consumes aquatic insects and their larvae, notably caddisflies, mayflies, stoneflies, midges, and mosquitoes, along with small crayfish, tiny fish, fish eggs, and tadpoles. It hunts by diving underwater and walking on streambeds, often in strong currents, where it occasionally becomes prey for large fish.
Habitat
American Dipper resides along clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers in montane and coastal environments from sea level to alpine zones, primarily within forests. Adapted to cold climates, american Dipper relies on pristine water habitats with cobblestone and coarse gravel beddings, vital for their aquatic insect diet. Perching and foraging are supported by midstream boulders and bankside woody debris. In winter, american Dipper may opt for larger, unfrozen rivers, occasionally lakes or ponds.
Nest Behavior
Both sexes of american Dipper participate in nest building, typically during early spring. The female selects the site and lays eggs, while both parents collaboratively care for the eggs and resulting hatchlings.
Nest Characteristics
American Dipper creates a domed or ball-like nest, typically on nearly vertical surfaces near water, such as boulders, cliffs, under bridges, or behind waterfalls. It's constructed from mosses, leaves, and bark, with an inner pad of dry grasses.
Dite type
Aquatic invertebrate eater
People often ask
General Info
Feeding Habits
Bird food type
Behavior
American Dipper exhibit a distinctive foraging technique, swimming and walking underwater to catch aquatic invertebrates, able to remain submerged for significant periods. Their unique bobbing motion may serve as communication amidst noisy habitats. These birds uphold year-round territories, showing fidelity to successful sites. During late winter, their avid singing underscores a socially monogamous lifestyle, with pairs often reuniting seasonally.
Species Status
Not globally threatened.
Photo By Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Birds Order
Perching birds Family
Dippers Genus
Dippers Species
American Dipper 
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