The laughing owl, also known as whēkau, the laughing jackass, or the white-faced owl, is an extinct species of owl that was endemic to New Zealand. Plentiful when European settlers arrived in New Zealand, its scientific description was published in 1845, but it was largely or completely extinct by 1914. The species was traditionally considered to belong to the monotypic genus Sceloglaux Kaup, 1848, although recent genetic studies indicate that it belongs with the boobook owls in the genus Ninox.
Region
New Zealand
Typical Environment
Historically found on both the North and South Islands, favoring open habitats such as tussock grasslands, scrublands, forest edges, and rocky outcrops. It often roosted and nested in caves, limestone cliffs, and rock crevices. The species hunted mostly on the ground or from low perches, frequently in open terrain. After human arrival, it persisted longest in more remote, rugged areas. Its distribution contracted rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The laughing owl (whēkau) was a long-legged, ground-inclined owl once common across New Zealand, famed for its eerie, cackling calls that sounded like human laughter. It nested in rock crevices and caves rather than trees and hunted over open country. Rapid habitat change, predation, and competition following human settlement hastened its decline. The last confirmed records date to the early 20th century, and the species is now extinct.
N. a. rufifacies
Ninox albifacies egg, specimen held at Te Papa
Laughing owls and moreporks in a taxidermy exhibition, Burton Brothers photographic studio, 1889
Male laughing owl mount from the collection of Naturalis Biodiversity Centre
N. a. albifacies by John Gerrard Keulemans, drawn after living specimens owned by Walter Rothschild
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
low, silent flight with short glides
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, with pairs occupying rocky territories. Nests were placed in caves, crevices, or sheltered ground sites with minimal lining. Clutches were small, and both adults likely contributed to care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A distinctive series of loud, cackling notes reminiscent of human laughter, often delivered in bouts. Also produced shrieks and whistle-like calls that carried far at night.
