Laughing Kookaburra
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NameLaughing Kookaburra
Common NameLaughing Kookaburra
Scientific NameDacelo novaeguineae
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsThe Laughing Kookaburra has creamy white underparts, a brown back and wings with iridescent blue patches on the shoulders. Its head is streaked brown and white, featuring a distinctive dark brown eye-stripe. The tail is rufous-brown and heavily barred.
Vocalization / CallFamous for its loud, cackling call that resembles human laughter, often heard at dawn and dusk. It typically starts with a low chuckle and builds into a boisterous chorus.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, savanna, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to eastern Australia, with introduced populations in Tasmania, Western Australia, and New Zealand.
Identifying Featureslarge head, prominent dark bill, dark eye-stripe, brown and white streaked head, iridescent blue shoulder patches, loud laughing call
Description
A large, terrestrial kingfisher renowned for its distinctive, laugh-like call. This predatory bird has a robust body, a large head, and a prominent dark bill, often perching patiently before swooping down on its prey.
