Mawau

Mawau is a term that can refer to several different things depending on the context, though it is most commonly associated with a type of bird. In ornithology, Mawau refers to several species of birds belonging to the genus *Dacelo*, also known as kookaburras. These are kingfishers native to Australia and New Guinea. The most well-known species is the Laughing Kookaburra (*Dacelo novaeguineae*), famous for its call that sounds like human laughter.

These birds are characterized by their large heads, strong bills, and powerful legs. They are primarily carnivorous, feeding on insects, small reptiles, amphibians, and occasionally small mammals and birds. Mawau are often found in woodlands, forests, and suburban areas. They are known for their distinctive territorial calls, which are used to communicate with other kookaburras and defend their territories.

Beyond its ornithological meaning, the term "mawau" might occasionally appear in other contexts, perhaps as a colloquialism or in specific regional dialects, though these usages are less common and often obscure. Without further context, the avian species remains the most widely recognized referent for the term mawau.