Kookaburra
Image: ivanovivan (cc-by-nc)
NameKookaburra
Common NameLaughing Kookaburra
Scientific NameDacelo novaeguineae
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)59
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)380
Plumage DetailsThis bird has a cream-colored head with a dark brown cap and a prominent dark brown stripe extending through the eye. Its underparts are off-white to cream, while its back and wings are mottled brown with some iridescent blue patches on the wings. The tail is barred brown and rufous.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, cackling call that sounds remarkably like human laughter, often performed in a chorus by family groups, especially at dawn and dusk to mark territory.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, suburban areas, parks, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to eastern Australia, its range extends from the Cape York Peninsula south to Victoria. It has also been introduced to Tasmania, Western Australia, and New Zealand.
Identifying Featureslarge head with a prominent dark eye-stripe, stout, dark bill, cream-colored underparts, mottled brown back and wings with blue patches, distinctive laughing call
Description
The Laughing Kookaburra is a large, terrestrial kingfisher native to eastern Australia, easily recognized by its stout body and large head. It is famous for its distinctive call that resembles human laughter, often heard at dawn and dusk.
