When compared to the little kingfisher, which is only 12 centimetres long, the laughing kookaburra is truly a giant. Its plumage is shades of whites and browns, which help it to blend easily into its environment. This makes it more difficult for prey or predators to see the bird.
There are 10 kingfisher species in Australia, 6 of which can be found in NSW.
- Azure kingfisher (NSW)
- Forest kingfisher (NSW)
- Collared kingfisher (NSW)
- Red-backed kingfisher (NSW)
- Sacred kingfisher (NSW)
- Little kingfisher
- Yellow-billed kingfisher
- Buff-breasted paradise kingfisher
- Blue-winged kingfisher
- Laughing kookaburra (NSW)
Although their size differs, all kingfishers look similar. They have stout, squat bodies with large heads and long beaks.