THE NORTH RIDING PROJECT

The Dipper, or Water Ouzel as it is called in some districts, builds her nest in such splendid harmony with the surroundings that it is very difficult to find.  It is generally placed near to some waterfall, and very often behind it, so that the bird has to fly through the water on entering and leaving her nest.  It is also found in caves, underneath the arches of hedges, and I have even found one in a tree. The exterior is composed of aquatic mosses, and the interior beautifully lined with dry leaves.  Dippers’ nests are generally of large size, almost globular in form, with a central hole for the entrance and exit of the bird.  She lays from four to six eggs, the average being five, of a delicate semi-transparent white, unspotted.

Kearton/Nests