DIPPER. 149 



it is even made in a crevice of the rocks behind a water- 

 fall. The nest is a beautiful structure, globular, similar 

 to that of the Wren, with a hole in the side for entrance. 

 Externally the large nest (sometimes eighteen inches 

 in length) is made almost exclusively of green moss, 

 which often harmonizes closely with surrounding tints, 

 strengthened here and there, especially round the hole, 

 with dry grass ; inside another nest, of dry grass, roots, 

 and twigs, and lined with quantities of withered leaves 

 arranged layer upon layer, is formed. The Dipper 

 sits closely, often allowing itself to be taken from the 

 nest, and when flushed from it makes little or no 

 demonstration. 



Range of egg colouration and measurement : 

 The eggs of the Dipper are from four to six in number, 

 and are pure white and spotless. Average measurement, 

 I'O inch in length, by 75 inch in breadth. Incubation, 

 performed by both sexes, lasts fourteen or fifteen days. 



Diagnostic characters : The eggs of the Dipper 

 are best distinguished from those of the Kingfisher 

 and the Great Spotted Woodpecker by their want of 

 gloss, the shell being somewhat rough in texture. The 

 situation of the nest, combined with the colour and size 

 of the eggs, prevent any possible confusion. 



