Laughing Kookaburra

Laughing Kookaburras are one of Australia’s most iconic birds, known for their unmistakable laughing call and distinctive appearance. Here, we see two adult Laughing Kookaburras perched on a high vantage point, patiently scanning the ground below for potential prey. These birds typically live in close-knit family groups, so when you spot one, there’s often another perched nearby. 

Physical appearance

The Laughing Kookaburra is the largest member of the kingfisher family, easily recognised by its sturdy build and large head. Their plumage includes cream-coloured underparts, mottled brown wings, and a bold dark eyestripe. When the light catches their wings, you can often see flashes of pale blue. Breeding males display extensive blue on their rump, while non-breeding males have only a small amount or none at all. Females, by contrast, have a brown rump with no blue, making this one of the few subtle ways to distinguish males from females.

Habitat

Laughing Kookaburras are common across eastern and southeastern Australia, thriving in woodlands, forests, parklands, farmland, and urban gardens. They prefer areas with large trees for perching and open spaces where prey is easily spotted.

Behaviour

Diet: Despite being kingfishers, kookaburras mainly hunt on land. Their diet includes insects, lizards, snakes, small mammals, frogs, worms, and occasionally small birds. They typically perch silently before swooping down to seize their prey. Once caught, they often beat their prey against a perch before swallowing it. 
Social birds: Laughing Kookaburras are highly social and live in family groups consisting of a breeding pair and their offspring from previous years, which help in raising the next generation.
Vocal nature: Their iconic “laugh” is not from amusement but rather a territorial call. Groups often call together, creating a chorus that can carry long distances.

Breeding

Nesting: Laughing Kookaburras nest in tree hollows or tree dwelling termite mounds. The nesting cavity is usually unlined, and the female lays two to four eggs.
Cooperative breeding: A fascinating aspect of their breeding behaviour is that older offspring assist with incubating eggs, feeding the chicks, and defending the territory, a successful cooperative system that increases survival rates.
Breeding period: Typically from August to January, though timing can vary with conditions.