Laughing Kookaburra look-alikes
Dacelo novaeguineae
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Laughing Kookaburra. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Blue-winged Kookaburra
Dacelo leachii
Key differences
The Blue-winged Kookaburra has a paler head with a less defined eye-stripe, and much more extensive bright blue on its wings and rump. Its underparts are whiter, and it lacks the rufous tail barring of the Laughing Kookaburra. Its call is also distinct, less like human laughter and more of a harsh 'kack-kack-kack' followed by a 'koo-koo-koo'.
Rufous-bellied Kookaburra
Dacelo gaudichaud
Key differences
Found in New Guinea, not Australia. It has a distinctive rufous belly, a black bill, and a much more extensive blue back and wings. Its call is also very different.
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