A type of large kingfisher adapted to terrestrial tree habitat, native to Australia and New Guinea. Markings vary among the four species, but they can generally be identified by their large, upturned bills.
The laughing kookaburra is most commonly known: it is pale tan with a dark brown eye-stripe, brown speckled wings and back and a rusty barred tail. The lower beak has peach coloration while the upper is warm grey.
The name kookaburra is derived from its distinctive call, which is frequently used in film to indicate a tropical, jungle or bush environment, including for habitats or continents where kookaburra do not live.
