Laughing Kookaburra

Dacelo novaeguineae

RANGE Eastern and southern Australia

HABITAT Eucalyptus forests and woodlands

DIET Small snakes, large insects, termites, lizards, small birds and mammals

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.

The kookaburra hunts snakes by quickly hammering the head with its powerful beak and then seizing the reptile behind the neck.

This species is not threatened; it has benefited from human settlements.