Sparrows specialize in foraging underwater with super skills of 'diving'

The wings of this bird have a unique mechanism that allows them to both fly in the air, but can also be used as flippers underwater, allowing them to dive deep with incredible speed.

The white-throated Dipper (Sturnus cinclus) belongs to the order Sparrows, but has a unique mechanism that allows them to hold their breath for a long time underwater, as well as easily move and find prey in this environment.

The Dipper is about 18 cm long, with a short tail, distributed across Europe, the Middle East, to Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent. Their distinguishing feature is the white throat and upper breast, surrounded by black feathers on the abdomen and flanks.

The birds' wings have a unique mechanism that allows them to both fly in the air, but can also be used as flippers underwater, allowing the bird to dive deep at incredible speeds. Although their feet are not webbed like birds of the Diving family, it is thanks to this structure that helps birds, when they reach the bottom of rivers and streams, can use their feet to grasp the surface and start move in search of prey, as well as keep the body balanced.

The favorite food of the Dipper bird is Gammarus - a small crustacean.

Dipper birds also have thick plumage for the purpose of waterproofing. The eyes have well-developed muscles that increase vision when underwater. They also have membranes in the nose to prevent water from entering the nostrils. Their blood has a high percentage of hemoglobin, allowing for a greater oxygen storage capacity than birds of prey on the ground, and diving underwater for as little as 30 seconds.

Dipper's favorite food is Gammarus - a small crustacean, with a shrimp-like appearance but with legs. In addition, they also feed on aquatic invertebrates including caddis worms and other aquatic mollusks and larvae. In some cases, Dipper birds have also been recorded hunting fish and small amphibians.

Contrary to some large birds of the Dipper family, the Dipper does not become clumsy when perched on the ground, nor does it forage on land. However, they seem to have adapted to a life of foraging in the water to avoid the risk of being hunted by birds of prey on land. This is shown by the fact that they often nest on islands, where it is difficult for common predators to reach. However, eggs and chicks are very susceptible to being eaten by gulls, crows, raccoons, skunks, foxes and large fish.