Dacelo novaeguineae
The Laughing Kookaburra, *Dacelo novaeguineae*, is an iconic and distinctive terrestrial kingfisher native to eastern Australia, recognized globally for its remarkable, human-like laughing call. A large, robust bird, it typically measures 40-47 cm (16-19 in) in length, weighs between 300-450 g (10.5-16 oz), and boasts a wingspan of 65-75 cm (26-30 in). Its plumage features a creamy-white underbelly and head, contrasting with a dark brown eye-stripe extending from the bill to behind the eye, a...
Found primarily in open woodlands, eucalyptus forests, and savannas, this terrestrial kingfisher also thrives in suburban gardens and parks, typically at low to moderate elevations.
Primarily carnivorous, their diet includes a wide range of prey such as large insects, crustaceans, worms, reptiles (lizards and small snakes), small mammals (rodents), nestling birds, and frogs, captured by striking the prey against a branch.
Laughing Kookaburras are diurnal birds, becoming most active at dawn and dusk when their famed territorial 'laughing' chorus rings out, often used to announce their presence or in response to other groups. They are perch-and-pounce predators, patiently watching from a high vantage point before sw...
The Laughing Kookaburra is endemic to eastern Australia, with its natural breeding range spanning from the Cape York Peninsula in northern Queensland, southward through New South Wales and Victoria, extending into southeastern South Australia. It is a non-migratory, resident species throughout it...
Least Concern
- Often called the 'Bushman's Clock' because of its regular dawn and dusk vocalizations. - Despite being a kingfisher, it rarely eats fish and prefers terrestrial prey. - Its powerful bill can crush the skulls of snakes and small rodents, which it often bashes against a branch to kill and soften....