February 11, 2013
Joining the aquarium’s bird collection is a female Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae), on exhibit outside the entrance to Lorikeet Forest. Found in Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand, Laughing Kookaburras live in woodland areas like eucalyptus forests. They hunt for small lizards, fish, rodents, and snakes, as well as worms, snails, and insects.
These birds, the largest members of the kingfisher family, have a lifespan of about eleven years. Males and females have similar plumage, with dark brown wings, a white head and underside, and reddish tail patterned with black stripes.
The birds can reach up to one pound in weight and 18 inches in length, with a beak 4 inches long. Breeding pairs nest in tree cavities and usually have one or more helpers, usually young born the previous year. The Laughing Kookaburra is known for its distinctive “laughing” call, which can be heard in the Australian bush at dawn and dusk.