An Activity Guide About the Songbirds of British Columbia Family CINCLIDAE: Dippers

American Dipper (Cinclus mexicanus) FIELD MARKS There is only one species of dipper in British Columbia. These birds live in and around flowing streams. They have short wings and tails and short, flat bills. They do not, however, have webbed toes. The American Dipper has a dark-grey body with a brownish head. The male and female look similar. Approximate length: 15 cm FOOD American Dippers feed on aquatic insects that they collect by swimming in mountain streams and searching around under the stones of the stream bed. They often disappear underwater while gathering food. They also eat fish eggs and very small fish fry. HABITAT The American Dipper lives near mountain streams of western North America. NESTING This Dipper nests around streams on rocky ledges or on crossbeams under bridges. The nest, a large dome-shaped structure with a large entrance, is made of layers of moss and grass. The female lays 4-5 white eggs. STATUS Stable overall. Declining or disappeared in areas where streams are polluted. The American Dipper is often a good indicator of water quality.