The kookaburra is an Australian bird like the kingfisher, with a large-crested head and a short tail. Its call sounds like loud laughter, as the text of the song indicates. The "bush" in the song is the central part of Australia, where it is so dry that only little bushes grow. This Australian folk song has been a part of camp and conference experience for many American young people. Often it has been their first experience in round singing.