Shovel-billed Kookaburra

The Shovel-billed Kookaburra, known scientifically as Dacelo rex, is a robust bird of New Guinea, notable for its unique, heavy, and broad bill. This dark brown tree kingfisher measures approximately 33 cm in length and sports a dark head with a distinctive rufous stripe behind the eyes. Its throat is white, while the neck collar and underparts are a warm rufous. A bright blue rump adds a splash of color to its otherwise earthy tones. The bird's bill is a brownish-black with a paler mandible, often appearing uniformly brown due to the earth it encounters. Its feet are pale, and the iris of the eye is brown.

Identification Tips

To identify the Shovel-billed Kookaburra, look for the color of the tail as a distinguishing feature between sexes. The male boasts a dark bluish tail, whereas the female's tail is rufous. Juveniles resemble females but have scale-patterned feathers.

Habitat

This species is primarily found in hill forests of New Guinea, though it has been observed from sea level to altitudes as high as 2400 meters.

Distribution

Endemic to New Guinea, the Shovel-billed Kookaburra is widespread but uncommon, with no recognized subspecies due to minimal plumage variation.

Behaviour

The Shovel-billed Kookaburra is an inconspicuous bird, often difficult to spot. It is thought to be partially crepuscular, active during the twilight hours.

Diet and Feeding

Its diet mainly consists of earthworms, snails, beetles, lizards, and insects, which it finds in mud or on moist ground.

Conservation status

The Shovel-billed Kookaburra is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, thanks to its wide range and lack of significant threats.