Tinues

Tinues refers to a group of songbirds belonging to the genus Cinclus. These birds are unique among passerines for their aquatic lifestyle. They are commonly known as dippers because of their characteristic habit of bobbing or "dipping" their bodies while standing on rocks near fast-flowing water. Dippers are found in mountainous regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, typically inhabiting clear, cold streams and rivers.

Physically, dippers are stout, short-tailed birds with strong legs and feet adapted for walking on the streambed. Their plumage is generally dark brown or slate-colored, often with a white or chestnut breast, providing camouflage against the rocky and watery environments. They possess a fleshy, nasal flap that closes when they dive underwater.

The diet of dippers consists primarily of aquatic invertebrates such as insect larvae, snails, and small crustaceans, which they forage for by diving into the water and walking along the bottom. They can swim underwater for short distances and are also capable of flying underwater. Their nests are typically dome-shaped structures built from moss and other materials, often placed behind waterfalls or on ledges near the water. There are five recognized species of dipper, each adapted to specific geographical ranges and habitats.