Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo Novaeguineae)

Order: Coraciiformes
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Origin: Eastern mainland Australia (introduced populations also present in western Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand)
Habitat: Eucalyptus forests, woodlands and even urban environments like city parks and gardens
Diet: Insects, worms, amphibians, reptiles, small rodents and small birds.
Size (from beak to tail): 41-47cm
Weight: 190-465g (6.9-16.4oz)
Threats: Habitat loss from land clearing and bushfires, pesticide poisoning through ingestion of affected prey and predation by introduced species like cats and foxes

Laughing kookaburras are the largest member of the kingfisher family, known for their distinctive "laughing" territorial call at dawn and dusk. They are voracious hunters, feeding on anything small enough for them to swallow in one gulp! They typically hunt by perching and swooping on prey, stunning larger animals like snakes against hard surfaces. These large, stout birds are territorial and mate for life, often with non-breeding offspring assisting the family group in hunting and feeding the young. Download our fact file to find out more!

Did you Know? They are also known as the 'bushman's clock' due to it's cackling chorus that can be heard at dawn and dusk.

Our laughing kookaburras are named Bruce and Irwin!