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About
North American Dipper
Thrush sized, plump bird that has a very short tail, often cocked, and strong legs, giving appearance of an overgrown wren. Plumage sooty grey, with short white feathers on the eyelids, particularly noticeable on the lower eyelids; legs yellowish; bill blackish; eyes dark brown.
Breeding takes place in May and June. Pair build large domed nest of moss, lined with dead leavesw, located in a steep bank or under a bridge over fast moving water, or under a waterfall, which they will fly through to reach their nest. They may use this same nest for years or build a new one over the top to the old. The female lays 3-6 white eggs, incubated by the female for 13-17 days.
Five species of the dipper family (two in Europe and Asia, two in South America, and North American dipper. Share the same lifestyle. These are the only aquatic members of the perching bird order. Their closest relatives are the thrushes.
The North american dipper is superbly adapted to feeding underwater. As it sits by the water it will dip its head to search for prey. After finding food it will walk, flies, swims or dives into the water, using its strong, sturdy feet to grip tightly onto streambed rocks and avoid being swept away by the strong currents. They can even "fly" under water with its powerful wingbeats.
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What is this animal's name?
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North American Dipper |
What class is this animal assigned to?
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Aves |
What does this animal eat?
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Aquatic insects and their larvae, mainly caddisfly and mayfly larvae; also invertebrates, such as worms and snails, as well as small fish and fish eggs. |
| Where did this animal live? |
Western mountain chain of North america, northern Central America, from Ala |
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