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Cassowaries are large, flightless birds native to the tropical forests on New Guinea, nearby Islands, and Northern Australia. They are known for their striking appearance, with vivid blus and black plumage, a helmet-like casque on their heads, and a bright blue neck.
There are three species of Cassowaries: the Southern cassowary (Casuarius casuarius), the Northern cassowary (Casssuarius unappendiculatus), and the Dwarf cassowary (Casuarius bennetti). The Southern cassowary is the largest and most well-known specie.
Cassowaries are among the largest birds in the world, with adults reaching heights of up to 6 feet and weighing around 130 pounds. Their long powerful legs are adapted for jumping, and each foot has three toes with sharp claws, one of which is highly developed and can be up to 5 inches long.
They inhabit dense tropical rainforests, mangroves, and swamps. They are solitary birds, except during breeding season when pairs come together. The male cassowary defends his own territory of around 7km while the female cassowary have larger territories, overlapping those of the males.
Female cassowaries are larger and more brightly colored than males. They lay three to eight large, bright green eggs in a nest on the forest floor, which the male incubates and cares for. After hatching, the chicks are raised by the male and remain with him for several months.
Often times, cassowaries avoid human contact as they are shy and elusive. When threatened, they may become aggressive and use their powerful legs and sharp claws for defense. They have often been labeled “the world’s most dangerous bird.”
Cassowaries are omnivores, although their diet consists mainly of fruits, including fallen fruits from trees and shrubs. They also consume fungi, insects, small vertebrates and carrion.
All three species of cassowaries are considered vulnerable and endangered. They face threats from habitat loss due to deforestation, hunting for their meet and feathers, and collision with vehicles.
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