Learn about why this auspicious Australian bird is thought to bring good fortune.
Aboriginal cultures have a deep connection with wildlife and nature. Encountering a kookaburra in some Aboriginal cultures can mean good luck. This is because a kookaburra can bring positive change, whether that’s in an upcoming circumstance or the arrival of good news.
Not only does seeing a kookaburra signify good luck, but the laughter can also mean a signal of rain coming!
Where do kookaburras live?
Kookaburras are native to Australia and New Guinea. Within Australia, they are found across most of eastern Australia, from Cape York Peninsula over in Queensland to Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. They can even be found in Tasmania and the southern region of Western Australia.
Over in New South Wales, the Blue Mountains is a common area to spot Kookaburras and other native Aussie wildlife.
Where to spot a kookaburra in the Blue Mountains?
Kookaburras are spotted throughout the Blue Mountains region. Your best chance to see them is along the walking trails through the forest. There are two different species of kookaburra within the region, the laughing kookaburra and the blue-winged kookaburra.
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Red Hands Cave walking track
This walking track isn’t just a great birdwatching area, but there is some Aboriginal stencil art to see. The eight kilometre loop walk can take around two hours to complete with opportunities to enjoy a picnic lunch along the way.
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Lyrebird Dell walking track
Near the popular Blue Mountains town of Leura is a stunning walking track that offers Aboriginal heritage sites, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning waterfalls. The Lyrebird Dell track is a 1.7 kilometre loop walk, that takes about an hour to complete. The track is popular for birdwatchers who are looking to spot various bird species, including kookaburras.
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Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens
The Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens is a haven for birds, with over 140 species recorded here! Among the diverse birdlife, kookaburras are among the many species to be found. As you make your way through the Botanic Gardens, keep your eyes peeled for a kookaburra or listen out for their laughter.
As you explore the Blue Mountains, don’t forget to look up in the trees! There’s a good chance you’ll spot or even hear one as you make your way along a Blue Mountains walking trail. If you’re not in any luck, Featherdale Wildlife Park has a couple to see there, along with other wildlife!
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.