They inhabit open woodlands, forests, orchards, parkland, partially timbered farmland, and even suburbs and towns. Small prey are killed directly by the crushing action of the bill. Larger prey, including snakes of up to 1 meter in length, may be whacked repeatedly against a branch or dropped from a height until pulverized. Prey items include large insects, lizards, snakes, amphibians, small mammals, birds, and occasionally fish. Kookaburras begin their breeding cycle in October, the Australian spring.
Courtship includes vocalizations and conspicuous display flights high over the treetops.
Once a pair selects a breeding territory they begin nest construction. Both male and female participate in excavating a nest burrow. In some parts of Australia termites construct enormous clay mound nests high in Acacia trees. These arboreal termite mounds seem to be the preferred nest site for Kookaburras and other kingfisher species. They will also utilize hollow trees, earthen banks, and even holes in walls when better sites are unavailable.