Fairly common along unpolluted rivers and streams, almost always near running water. Mainly found in foothills and uplands, rarely in flatlands or coastal plains unless some running water is nearby. Usually encountered as singles feeding inconspicuously among rocks and pools; swims readily and even dives underwater. Often bobs persistently when standing, and flies strongly and low over the water, with whirring wingbeats. No similar species in Europe: note plump shape and contrasting, bright white bib; belly is rusty brown on British birds, blackish on Continental birds.