Laughing Kookaburra

Giant Kingfisher

Dacelo novaeguineae

Description

Kookaburras are fairly large birds from the kingfisher family. There are four recognized species: the Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, Dacelo gaudichaud; the Blue-winged Kookaburra, Dacelo leachii; the Spangled Kookaburra, Dacelo tyro; and the Laughing Kookaburra, Dacelo novaeguineae. The last of which is the only one we work with at Sandfire. The name kookaburra is onomatopoeic for the bird’s distinct call, which is similar to that of human laughter. The laughing kookaburra is perhaps the most famous of the group as its call has been used to epitomize the jungle in soundtracks, movies, TV and even amusement park attractions. Laughing kookaburras are the largest of all kingfishers; they are stoutly built, with a large head, and a heavy, well-defined bill. They have a white or cream base color, tan and brown wings often with blue highlights, a brown back and dark brown eye stripes. Their tails are reddish brown and tipped with white. They grow to be about 18 inches tall and can live 20 years or more.

Natural Habitat

Laughing kookaburras are native to eastern Australia and New Guinea, but have been introduced to Kawau Island in New Zealand as well. They spend much of their time in eucalyptus forests and related woodlands, but have also adapted well to urbanization and often live close to human development. They nest in tree hollows or occasionally emptied termite mounds. They are monogamous and are often found in loose family groups. These small family circles are territorial and it is believed that some of their calls are made to demarcate territorial boundaries to other birds. Hunting is usually done with a sit and wait approach; perched on a branch watching for prey to pass by. In spite of being members of the kingfisher family, laughing kookaburras are rarely found near water and do the majority of their hunting on the ground.

Artificial Habitat

Kookaburras are large birds and need ample space in which to fly around. Large aviaries with aviary wire or netting should be used. Vertical height should be at least 10 feet with taller being better. In much of the southern United States they can be housed outdoors year round provided they are given adequate shelter. Large nest boxes and multiple covered and uncovered perches should be provided. Kookaburras adapt readily to captivity becoming quite docile and often accept food by hand.

Diet

Kookaburras are carnivorous and eat most any small vertebrate or invertebrate including, but not limited to: worms, insects, frogs, snakes, lizards, rodents, fish, crayfish and other smaller birds. Smaller prey is usually preferred, but they have an uncanny ability to eat snakes much longer than themselves. In captivity they are usually fed mice or other small rodents. As with all animals, a varied diet is key to good health. Kookaburras are excellent hunters with voracious appetites and need to be fed daily.

Caveats

Kookaburras are loud animals with a very distinct call. They often call at dawn and dusk. While this may be pleasant to the owners of the bird(s) it is not always appreciated by neighbors.

Kookaburras have voracious appetites and need to be fed daily (ideally twice a day). This can make them fairly costly to care for.