Laughing Kookaburra
NameLaughing Kookaburra
Common NameLaughing Kookaburra
Scientific NameDacelo novaeguineae
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)43.5
Weight (g)370
Plumage DetailsFeatures off-white underparts with fine brown barring, a brownish-grey head with a distinctive dark brown stripe through the eye, and a mottled brown back and wings, often with some blue patches on the wings. The tail is barred brown and rufous.
Vocalization / CallFamous for its loud, cackling, laugh-like call, which is a territorial display often heard at dawn and dusk.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswoodland, eucalyptus forest, open forest, suburban garden, park
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to eastern mainland Australia. It has been introduced to Tasmania, Western Australia, and New Zealand.
Identifying Featureslarge head and stout body, distinctive dark eye stripe, large, strong bill, mottled brown and white plumage, iconic laugh-like call
Description
A large, stout kingfisher with a prominent head and a sturdy bill, known for its distinctive, loud, laugh-like call. It typically perches on branches, surveying its surroundings before swooping down to catch prey.
