Resident of the Gum Tree
ABORIGINAL AUSTRALIAN NAME
Guuguubarra (GOO-goo-BA-raah) in the Wiradjuri language of southwestern New South Wales
- The Zoo has two adult kookaburras: Jane, a female hatched in April 2013 and Tarzan, a male hatched in May 2014
- Laughing kookaburras are native to woodlands and open forests in Australia, where they perch in large trees and nest in cavities of tree trunks and branches
- These birds are typically between 15 to 16.5 inches tall
- They eat insects, amphibians, small reptiles, and crabs
- As small carnivores, kookaburras play an integral role in the ecosystem by controlling small animal populations.
- Jane laid eggs at the end of May 2022, and the first chick hatched on June 17 and the second on June 19. Both chicks are female.
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Species Survival Plans
The Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the 220+ accredited zoos and aquariums that participate in Species Survival Plans (SSP), a cooperatively managed program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). More than 200 different species are managed through SSPs, aimed at maintaining genetic diversity within AZA populations, sustaining these populations, and guarding against extinction.
Wildlife Experiences
Meet the Animals
Have you always wanted to get just a little bit closer to the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo? Well, you can! Take a look at our animal encounters, and choose the best option for you and/or your family.