Bird · GBIF taxon 2495093
White-throated Dipper
Cinclus cinclusAlso known as European Dipper, Water Ouzel
White-throated dippers are unique songbirds adapted to life in rushing mountain torrents, capable of diving completely beneath the surface and walking along rocky riverbeds against fierce currents. They use dense plumage, heavy bones, and a high concentration of blood oxygen to forage underwater for aquatic invertebrates. When perched on exposed river boulders, individuals continuously bob up and down while blinking flashing white eyelids.
AquaticSongbirdDiving
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Caddisfly larvae
- Mayfly nymphs
- Freshwater shrimp
Predators
- Eurasian Sparrowhawk
- American Mink
- Eurasian Otter
ThreatsWater pollution, stream acidification, damming, and canalization of natural riverbanks
HabitatsFast-flowing, rocky upland streams, clear mountain rivers, and cascading waterfalls
Life span3–6 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCinclidae
- SpeciesCinclus cinclus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Optimal Viewing: Scan mossy mid-stream boulders and bridge footings along fast, clear upland currents.
- Auditory Clues: Listen for a piercing, metallic 'zit' call that cuts through the roar of rushing water.
- Nesting Etiquette: Give wide berth to moss-domed nests tucked behind waterfalls or under stone bridges.
Frequent Companion (c) Juan Emilio, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) Alpsdake, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) Jared Shorma, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Jared Shorma · cc-by
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