Birds
File:OR001778 Ninox albifacies albifacies Te Papa 630296 263370.jpg

Laughing Owl

Laughing Owl

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The Laughing Owl was a unique, medium-sized owl endemic to New Zealand, named for its distinctive, loud, and bizarre vocalizations that sounded like maniacal laughter. Sadly, it is now considered extinct.
Where to spot
Historically found in rocky, semi-arid areas, open woodlands, and subalpine scrub in both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Its habitat was often characterized by caves, crevices, and rock shelters.
How to spot
Observation is impossible as it is extinct. However, studying historical accounts and museum specimens provides insights into this fascinating vanished species.
When to spot
As an extinct species, direct observation is not possible. Historical accounts suggest it was nocturnal and crepuscular.
File:OR001778 Ninox albifacies albifacies Te Papa 630296 263370.jpg
File:OR001778 Ninox albifacies albifacies Te Papa 630296 263371.jpg
File:OR001778 Ninox albifacies albifacies Te Papa 630296 263372.jpg
File:OR010143 Ninox albifacies cf albifacies Te Papa 630299 151892.jpg
File:OR030061 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509640 375582.jpg
File:OR030061 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509640 375583.jpg
File:OR030061 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509640 375584.jpg
File:OR030062 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509641 375585.jpg
File:OR001778 Ninox albifacies albifacies Te Papa 630296 263370.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:OR001778 Ninox albifacies albifacies Te Papa 630296 263371.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:OR001778 Ninox albifacies albifacies Te Papa 630296 263372.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:OR010143 Ninox albifacies cf albifacies Te Papa 630299 151892.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:OR030061 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509640 375582.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:OR030061 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509640 375583.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:OR030061 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509640 375584.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:OR030062 Ninox albifacies Te Papa 1509641 375585.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
The Laughing Owl's calls were described by early European settlers as 'ghastly, shrieking sounds,' 'a series of dismal cries,' or 'a peculiar quavering cry' that resembled human laughter, making it one of the most memorable sounds of old New Zealand.
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