Laughing Kookaburra
NameLaughing Kookaburra
Common NameLaughing Kookaburra
Scientific NameDacelo novaeguineae
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)380
Plumage DetailsThe plumage consists of a cream-colored belly with fine brown streaking, brown upperparts with lighter mottling, and a distinctive dark brown eye-stripe. The head is crested, and the tail is barred with brown and white.
Vocalization / CallFamous for its loud, cackling, 'laughing' call, often heard at dawn and dusk, which sounds like 'koo-koo-koo-kaa-kaa-kaa' and is used to mark territory.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, savanna, urban, garden
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to eastern mainland Australia, from the Cape York Peninsula south to Victoria. It has also been introduced to Tasmania, Flinders Island, and Kangaroo Island.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, stocky build, Prominent dark eye-stripe, Crested head, Large, strong bill, Loud, laughing call, Brown and white barred tail
Description
The Laughing Kookaburra is a large, terrestrial kingfisher native to eastern Australia, known for its distinctive call that resembles human laughter. It has a stout body, a large head with a prominent bill, and often perches patiently before swooping down on prey.
