Laughing Kookaburra
Dacelo novaeguineae
Class
Aves
Order
Coraciiformes
Family
Alcedinidae
Laughing Kookaburra
Range
Eastern and southern Australia
Size
Length: 15 - 17 in
Weight: 6 - 17 oz
Habitat
Eucalyptus forests and woodlands
Young
Clutch of 2 - 3 eggs
Incubation: 24 - 29 days
Diet
Small snakes, large insects, termites, lizards, small birds and mammals
IUCN Status
Least Concern
Bushman's Alarm Clock
The kookaburra is known as the "bushman's alarm clock" for its loud call, usually performed at dawn and dusk. It is one of the largest members of the kingfisher family. This bird is territorial and occupies the same area all year long.
Hunting
The kookaburra hunts snakes by quickly hammering the head with its powerful beak and then seizing the reptile behind the neck.
Status
This species is not threatened; it has benefited from human settlements.