This American Dipper was discovered at the Naxwit Picnic Site alongside the highway just prior to entering Lillooet. Dippers are small songbirds uniquely adapted to feeding under water. The common name “dipper” comes from this bird's habit of bending its legs so its entire body moves up and down in a dipping motion. Dipping takes place most frequently when the birds are closely approached or disturbed; they rarely dip when feeding or resting. They can swim across water by paddling with their legs and feet. They can also dive and propel themselves under the water with swimming motions of their wings. In shallow water, they walk along the bottom of streams by grasping stones with their elongated toes. These birds use their wings to help them stay submerged.