

LAUGHING JACKASS.— Caccto gigas. 



some instances, such as tliat with which we shall commence our history, they make the 

 greatest part of their diet of insects and crustaceans. In colour tliey are very variable, 

 some being comparatively dull in tint, possessing no colours but black, brown, and white, 

 while others are decorated with the most brilliant plumage, which nearly equals that of 

 the trogons in gorgeousness of hue, although the colours are not distributed in such large 

 masses, nor are the feathers so exquisitely soft and downy. They are to be found in 

 nearly all parts of the world, and our own island boasts of one of the handsomest, 

 although one of the smallest, species. 



Our first example of the Kingfishers is the Laughing Jackass, or Giant Kingfisher, 

 its former title being derived from the strange character of its ciy. 



This bird is an inhabitant of Australia, being found chiefly in the south-eastern district 

 of that country, and in New South Wales. In Van Diemen's Land Mr. Gould believes 

 that it does not exist. In no place is it found in any great numbers ; for although it is 

 sufficiently common, it is but tliinly dispersed over the country. It is rather a large bird, 

 being eighteen inches in total length, and is powerful in proportion, being able to w.ige 

 successful war against creatures of considerable size. 



