This family of birds includes five species. They are found in North and South America, Asia, and Europe. They are usually found near rivers, streams, or lakes.

Dippers have plump bodies and are about 5-8 inches in length. They have straight, pointed bills; short, stubby wings; and a short, square or rounded tail. They are brown, gray, or black, and some species have white patches on their throat, chest, and head. Males and females look alike.

Dippers have waterproof feathers and can dive and swim underwater for up to ten seconds. They dive underwater and walk on the bottom as they probe for food. They eat crustaceans, insects, and insect larvae.

The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus) is the only species found in North America. It is found from Northern Alaska south through the mountains of the west. It lives near fast-moving streams. It is about eight inches in length and is gray with a short, stubby tail.