ExploreBirds

White-throated Dipper

Cinclus cinclus

The White-throated Dipper is a special bird that loves to dive into water! It has a white throat and a round body, making it easy to spot near rivers and streams.

Habitat: Mountain streams and rivers

Appearance

The White-throated Dipper is a plump, starling-sized bird with a short tail. It has a distinctive pure white bib on its chest and throat, contrasting sharply with its dark brown body and head, which often appear black. Its legs are reddish-brown.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyCinclidaeGenusCinclus
White-throated Dipper
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White-throated Dipper

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

A dipper's call is loud and bubbling, heard even over rushing rivers!

Dippers can close their nostrils to keep water out while diving!

These birds build dome-shaped nests hidden behind waterfalls for safety!

They often bob up and down rapidly, giving them their 'dipper' name!

Special abilities

Ability

Underwater Prowess

White-throated Dipper can walk and 'fly' underwater, using its strong legs and wings to hunt prey in rushing currents.

Ability

Waterproof Coat

White-throated Dipper has dense, oily feathers that create an insulating air layer, helping them stay warm and dry in icy waters.

Ability

Clear Vision

White-throated Dipper can see clearly underwater because of specialized eyes that filter glare, spotting prey in murky streams.

Measurements & details

Length
17-20 cm
Wingspan
25-30 cm
Weight
0.057-0.076 kg
Lifespan
7-10 years
Top Speed
60 km/h
Clutch Size
4-6
Incubation
15-18 days

Diet & Feeding

Dippers are underwater hunters, mostly eating insects and small fish found in rivers.

Age differences: Young birds start with softer insect larvae before moving to larger prey.

Primary Foods

  • aquatic insect larvae
  • small fish
  • tadpoles
  • fish eggs

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and don't try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is White-throated Dipper?

17-20 cm

What is White-throated Dipper's wingspan?

25-30 cm

How much does White-throated Dipper weigh?

0.057-0.076 kg

How long does White-throated Dipper live?

7-10 years

How fast can White-throated Dipper move?

60 km/h

What does White-throated Dipper eat?

Dippers are underwater hunters, mostly eating insects and small fish found in rivers.

Where is White-throated Dipper usually found?

Mountain streams and rivers

How does White-throated Dipper hunt?

Pursuit

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