American Dippers are very special birds and I would like to tell you all a little bit about them while sharing a few of my favorite photos I've made of them this winter.

Often heard but not seen, the American Dipper is North America's only truly aquatic songbird. They have a sweet song that can be heard from afar, but if you go looking for the bird producing these melodies, you may find yourself staring at a lot of rocks! Until one of those little rocks walks directly into a running river!

These little slate-gray birds live along white water streams and rivers in western states, stretching north through western Canada and most of Alaska. Their range also goes south, through small regions of Central America.

My favorite thing about these birds is how tough they are! The rivers and streams they call home are no joke and usually extremely cold! When I have photoshoot days with them, I am usually wearing arctic boots and waders to keep warm. To thrive in these extreme conditions, dippers have a low metabolic rate, extra oxygen-carrying capacity in their blood, and an extra thick coat of feathers that includes feathered eyelids- very glamorous!

American Dippers bring me a lot of joy. It's always a pleasure to watch them dipping, diving and dancing as they sing the most beautiful mountain songs. I hope after viewing these photos, you'll also fall in love with these mighty and unique little friends.

More info: deirdredenaliphotography.com