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You are here: Home > How you can help > Backyard Buddies > Meet some of your buddies > Encourage Kookaburras in your area

Encourage kookaburras in your area

Did you know that in many parts of NSW, we share our backyards with one of Australia's most family-oriented birds?

That's right! Despite the larrikin image given by its raucous laughter, the kookaburra takes family duty seriously. It usually stays with mum and dad to help feed, raise and protect their younger siblings for several years.

Be a kookaburra buddy

Try to:

• Keep large gum trees in your backyard, streets and parks, and plant some replacements.
• Use plenty of leaf mulch on your gardens, building up the supply of worms, insects and lizards.
• Keep a watchful eye on your dog and cat.

Avoid:

• Using pesticides if kookaburras are heard in your area.
• Leaving uneaten petfood outside, as it may attract foxes or feral cats.
• Letting your cat or dog roam in areas where kookaburras live.
• Feeding them, as they can make a fine living on natural food.

Don't be surprised if kookaburras:

• Fight within the family - they are practising and confirming the pecking order.
• Have their nests disturbed by other native animals. It's only natural.
• Perch close to you. They can be bold, but are not usually aggressive.

More information

• See a few more kookaburra facts
• Read the NPWS kookaburra factsheet

Laughing kookaburra call courtesy of Nature Sound.