Those Krazy Kookaburras!

The Hysterical Laughter 

The kookaburra has a broad, spectacular range to its voice. Though it may sound like human laughter, it acts as a territorial call that the bird uses to warn other animals and make its presence known. These calls start as a hiccup type chuckle followed by a burst of almost uncontrollable laughter. Cackling groups of kookaburras can be heard all times of the day, but most frequently at dusk and dawn. 

Despite their unique voice, kookaburra birds have an effortless outward appearance. With plainly colored feathers and brown stripes across their heads, kookaburras have long bills that are heavy and can grow up to 4 inches long!  As carnivorous birds, they use their beaks to quickly snatch up food such as insects, worms, and even small frogs. Ribbit! 

“Kooky” for Kookaburra Facts!

Here are some fun facts about the Krazy kookaburras and their spunky little characteristics!

• Laughing kookaburra habitats are predominantly in the rainforests and woodlands of Australia. 
• Kookaburras are the most significant species in the Tree Kingfisher family – though they are the odd ones out as they don’t usually eat fish!
• These birds’ tumultuous calls are known as the “Bushman’s Clock” in the land down under.
• Kookaburras pair for life. They establish a year-round territory, nesting in tree-holes, and both females and males contribute to caring for the young.
• The females are usually larger than males.
• Kookaburras are labeled as being of the least concern regarding their species population. Still, habitat loss always poses a threat to any species in certain harsh climates and habitats. 
• Olly the Kookaburra was one of three official animal mascots at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney!
• At many zoos, kookaburras are a part of the “Birds of Prey” exhibits, as they are known to eat mice, insects, and small snakes! Hissssssss!! 
• The dolphin call in the hit television show “Flipper” is actually a modified kookaburra bird call! 

This bird has one heck of a laugh, an audacious personality, and a bold voice!  They have adapted within human development and environments and often inhabit suburban areas where food and shelter are abundant. 

Want to hear the laughter in person? Come visit our krazy kookaburras at your nearest SeaQuest location!  We can’t wait to show our fantastic bird habitat exhibit!

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