Dacelonidae - kookaburras, Dacelonid kingfishers) There are about 56 species of tree-dwelling kingfishers in this family. Unlike other kingfishers, the members of this family do not need to live near water. They are found in grasslands and forests. These kingfishers are also omnivorous and eat insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Like the kingfishers in the Alcedinidae family, they have large, pointed bills; big heads; and short necks. They are found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. They are usually larger than members of the Alcedinidae family. The laughing kookaburra of Australia is the largest species of kingfisher. It is about 16 inches in length and has a distinctive cackling, laughing call. It has brownish wings and face and a white belly. Laughing kookaburras live in woodland areas and live in family groups. When one starts laughing, the rest join in! There are three other species of kookaburras. The blue-winged kookaburra is found in Australia and New Guinea. It is a little smaller than the laughing kookaburra and is brown with blue-edged wings. The rufous-bellied kookaburra is found in the rainforests of New Guinea. It has a white bill, a reddish belly and tail, and bluish wings. The spangled kookaburra is found on the Aru Islands and New Guinea. It has a white chest and belly, bright blue wings and tail, and a black head with white spots. |