Dipper Ripple

An american dipper sits atop a small, moss speckled branch that juts from the turquoise clear water. I’ve always called them dancing dippers for their constant bobbing up and down as if listening to their own soundtrack. This swimming songbird has adapted to its cold water climates in remarkable ways. A slower metabolism and blood that actually has the ability to carry more than usual oxygen levels, both features helping to keep the birds internal temperature up when diving in the frigid water. Special glands, like that of a pelican, produce oils that keep the feathers waterproof. These birds are a great indicator of a clean water system needing proper water temperatures for their food sources to survive and nesting areas along waterways. Pollution, along with habitat loss are the number one contributing factors to the American Dipper being on the decline in population.