The bird that laughs
The laughing kookaburra is the largest member of the kingfisher family. It is stocky, with a large bill, a brown eye-stripe and a barred tail. Unlike most kingfishers it hunts mainly on land, dropping from a perch onto lizards, large insects and even small snakes.
A territorial chorus
Its “laugh” starts with chuckles and builds into a loud, rolling cackle. Family groups often call together, tilting their heads back, usually around dawn and dusk. The chorus works as a territorial notice to neighbouring groups rather than as a sign of amusement.
Family life
Kookaburras live in cooperative family groups in which young from earlier years help feed and defend the next brood. They nest in tree hollows or termite mounds. The species is common and adapts well to suburbs, but clearing of old hollow-bearing trees can limit where it can breed.
Listen
What it sounds like: A rolling, laughing chorus, often at dawn and dusk.
To hear independent recordings, try Freesound · Xeno-canto. Check each recording’s licence before reusing it. See Media & Sources.
Further reading: How Birds Learn Their Songs — Nature's Music Lessons
Conservation status follows the IUCN Red List as we understand it at the time of writing. Assessments are revised regularly, so please check the IUCN Red List for the current listing.