American dipper

Description:

A mostly dark gray bird with hints of brown sometimes. There is a slight or very small white feathers on the eyelids. It has an extra eyelid known as 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. These specialized features allow the dipper to forage underwater where they can prey on aquatic insects, including dragonfly nymphs, small crayfish, and caddisfly larvae. It may also take tiny fish or tadpoles.

Habitat:

Spotted foraging in the Provo River near Provo, Utah. This portion of the river is shaded by lots of large trees.

Notes:

Range in western North America.