Kookaburra
Image: ivanovivan (cc-by-nc)
NameKookaburra
Common NameLaughing Kookaburra
Scientific NameDacelo novaeguineae
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)380
Plumage DetailsIt has a cream-colored belly and chest, a dark brown crown with a prominent dark brown eye-stripe, and a white neck collar. The back and wings are dark brown, often with patches of iridescent blue on the wing coverts, and the tail is barred brown and rufous.
Vocalization / CallFamous for its loud, cackling call that sounds like human laughter, often heard at dawn and dusk, and used to mark territory.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, savanna, suburban gardens, parks
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to eastern mainland Australia, from the Cape York Peninsula south to Victoria. Introduced to Tasmania, Flinders Island, and New Zealand.
Identifying FeaturesLarge head and robust bill, Distinctive dark eye-stripe, White underparts and neck collar, Brown back and wings with blue patches, Loud, laughing vocalization
Description
The Laughing Kookaburra is a large, terrestrial kingfisher native to eastern Australia, known for its distinctive call resembling human laughter. It has a stocky build, a large head, and a prominent, strong bill, often perching motionless while hunting.
