Cassowary
The Cassowary is a large, flightless bird native to the tropical rainforests of northeastern Australia and New Guinea. It is known for its striking, black plumage, its bright blue and red neck, and its large, bony casque on its head.
The Cassowary is a herbivore that feeds on a variety of fruits and seeds. It is a vital part of its ecosystem, as its fruit-eating habits help to disperse seeds and regenerate the forest.
The Cassowary is also known for its powerful kick, which can be deadly to humans.
Cassowary
Classification
Aves > Casuariiformes > Casuariidae > Casuarius > C. casuarius
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
5 - 6 feet
(1.5 - 1.8 m)
Average Weight
70 - 130 lbs
(32 - 59 kg)
Average Life Span
40 - 50 years
Gestation Period
50 - 52 days
Did You Know?
The Cassowary is often called the "most dangerous bird in the world" due to its powerful legs and sharp claws.
They have a distinctive, helmet-like casque on their head, which is thought to help them push through dense undergrowth.
Cassowaries are excellent swimmers and can cross rivers and even small stretches of ocean.
Their diet consists mainly of fallen fruits, but they also eat small animals and fungi.
Cassowaries play a vital role in their rainforest ecosystem by dispersing seeds from the fruits they eat.
They can run up to 31 miles per hour (50 km/h) through dense forest.
Female Cassowaries are larger and more brightly colored than males.
The male Cassowary is responsible for incubating the eggs and raising the chicks alone.
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