American Dipper

[Joemeche]

We've had as many as a half-dozen dipper nests in Whatcom Falls Park. They're on the creek throughout the year (always on the Christmas Bird Count) and a treat to see in the middle of town.










Just out of the nest.

 

[Bill Anderson]

Good shots. I have seen videos of dippers and am amazed at what fast water they prefer.

 

[Joemeche]

They like it noisy and white, as evidenced by the location of their nests.


One of last year's nests


They stop and look around before heading in


Look closely and you'll see one flying up to the nest

 

[fiznatty]

Nice detail in these shots, Joe. I see them every year during my Yellowstone visits, and it's not easy getting good close shots.

Max

 

[Terry O]

Marvelous detail and compositions, Joe! A pleasure to look at!

 

[squirl033]

great stuff, Joe! the bill on the bird in the second image looks odd, like the top half was broken and is trying to re-grow or something... did that perhaps happen in PP? i bet that falls is running pretty full now...

 

[Joemeche]

great stuff, Joe! the bill on the bird in the second image looks odd, like the top half was broken and is trying to re-grow or something... did that perhaps happen in PP? i bet that falls is running pretty full now...

Thanks, Rocky.
Images 2-4 are of the same bird....a juvenile. It might be lighting/optical confusion (as my brother calls it).
Yes, the creek and falls are running high/noisy!

 

[squirl033]

could be... he also appears to be standing on just one leg...

 

[Joemeche]

he also appears to be standing on just one leg...

They're talented that way.

 

[Joemeche]

Dippers are unique birds, for sure, and quite enjoyable to watch.


Taking food to the nestlings


Third eyelid


Swimming inside one of the holding tanks at the salmon hatchery