Image via Macaulay Library
Laughing Kookaburra
- Scientific name
- Dacelo novaeguineae
- Family
- Alcedinidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Woodland
- Wing shape
- Broad
- Tail shape
- Rounded
Where it came from
The Laughing Kookaburra, scientifically classified as Dacelo novaeguineae, is a species of kingfisher native to eastern Australia and introduced to regions like Tasmania and New Zealand. Historically, the bird gained notoriety among European settlers in the late 18th century for its distinctive call, which mimics human laughter. This vocalization is primarily a territorial signal used by family groups to mark their domain, rather than an expression of amusement.
The physical design of the kookaburra is evolutionary, featuring a robust, broad-winged frame and a rounded tail that facilitates maneuverability in wooded habitats. Ornithological documentation from the colonial era often highlighted the bird's unique morphology, distinguishing it from the smaller, more colorful river-dwelling kingfishers. Its biological success is attributed to its adaptability as an ambush predator, a trait that has secured its status as a prominent cultural icon within Australian natural history.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Laughing Kookaburra
Laughing Kookaburra is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Laughing Kookaburra on collecto.rs?
Laughing Kookaburra doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Laughing Kookaburra?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Laughing Kookaburra catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Laughing Kookaburra is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
