an Australian kingfisher (Dacelo gigas) with an abrupt, harsh cry suggestive of loud laughter
See kookaburra in American Heritage Dictionary 4
(ko͝okˈə-bûrˌə, -bŭrˌə)
noun
A large kingfisher (Dacelo novaeguineae) of southern and eastern Australia, having brown and white plumage and a call resembling raucous laughter. Also called laughing jackass.