The white-capped dipper is an aquatic passerine found in South America. It is a small black bird with white spots. It is found in the Andes from northern Bolivia, through Peru, Ecuador, Colombia to northwest Venezuela.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along torrential rivers and streams from northwestern Venezuela through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and into northern Bolivia. Prefers shaded ravines and cloud-forest edges with exposed rocks and mossy banks. Usually keeps close to water, perching on midstream boulders and low branches overhanging the current. Breeds near waterfalls and rapids where spray maintains lush moss for nesting.
Altitude Range
500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This aquatic songbird lives almost exclusively along fast, boulder-strewn mountain streams where it forages in rushing water. It can dive and walk underwater, using its wings to steady itself against strong currents. Nests are bulky, domed masses of moss often placed on rock ledges close to spray or even behind waterfalls. Its presence generally indicates clean, well-oxygenated streams.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over water
Social Behavior
Typically found alone or in pairs defending linear stretches of stream. Pairs establish territories during the breeding season and build domed moss nests near spray zones. Both adults attend the nest and feed young with aquatic invertebrates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, penetrating trills and thin, tinkling phrases that cut through the noise of rushing water. Also gives sharp chip notes while flying low over the stream and while foraging.
Plumage
Sooty-black body with a crisp white crown forming a distinct 'cap'; short tail and compact, rounded shape typical of dippers.
Diet
Feeds mainly on aquatic insect larvae such as mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies, as well as small crustaceans. Occasionally takes small fish fry and tadpoles. Forages by dipping, diving, and walking underwater, probing among submerged stones and moss. Will also glean invertebrates from wet rock surfaces and splash zones.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the fastest sections of clear, well-oxygenated mountain streams, especially around rapids and waterfalls. Uses exposed midstream rocks as vantage points between dives and often works along mossy banks and root tangles.
