DIPPER (Cinclus mexicanus): Also known as water ouzel, 7-8 1/2 in. Body slate-gray, tinged with brown above; short, stubby tail. Upon alighting on a rock in a stream, it usually bobs up and down. It frequently dives into the water, and walks along the bottom, the wings assisting. Such excursions are to procure small aquatic animals for food. Nest of moss, with opening at the side.

Frequents cool, shaded, clear, swift-flowing mountain streams, especially where there are rock walls or cliffs that provide nesting sites. Sometimes places nest behind a waterfall. R. in the Transition to the Hudsonian life zone. May be seen in Yosemite Valley, where it is one of the most interesting and best loved birds.

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