LAUGHING JACKASS . — Dacelo gigas. 
The odd looking bird called tlie Laughing Jackass, on account of its cry* is 
found in Australia, where it startles the stranger by its loud yelling laugh, which 
it utters by night. Though a kingfisher, it cares little about fish, feeding mostly 
on insects, mice, and reptiles. 
At the rising and setting of the sun the Laughing Jackass becomes very lively, 
and is the first to welcome the approach of dawn, and to chant its strange 
exulting song at the return of darkness. 
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