Laughing Kookaburra
NameLaughing Kookaburra
Common NameLaughing Kookaburra
Scientific NameDacelo novaeguineae
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)380
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly creamy white on the underparts and head, with a prominent dark brown eye-stripe extending from the bill to the nape. The back and wings are mottled brown, often with iridescent blue patches on the wing coverts. The tail is barred brown and white.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, distinctive territorial call that resembles human laughter, typically heard at dawn and dusk. It starts with a low chuckle and builds into a boisterous 'kook-kook-kook-ka-ka-ka'.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to eastern Australia, from the Cape York Peninsula south to Victoria. It has also been introduced to Tasmania, Western Australia, and New Zealand.
Identifying FeaturesLarge head with stout bill, Prominent dark eye-stripe, Creamy white 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 distinctive 'laughing' call. These birds are often seen perched on branches, patiently waiting to ambush prey on the ground.
