Dippers are members of the genus Cinclus in the bird family Cinclidae. They're named for their bobbing or dipping movements. They're unique among passerines for their ability to dive and swim underwater. Description Dippers are small, stout, short-tailed, short-winged, strong-legged birds. The different species are generally dark brown (sometimes nearly black), or brown and white in colour, apart from the Rufous-throated Dipper which's brown with a reddish-brown throat patch. Sizes range from… (More on Dipper)