Southern Cassowary
NameSouthern Cassowary
Common NameSouthern Cassowary
Scientific NameCasuarius casuarius
FamilyCasuariidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)150
Weight (g)45000
Plumage DetailsThe body is covered in coarse, stiff, hair-like black feathers. The head is unfeathered, displaying bright blue and purple skin, with a red wattle hanging from the throat. A large, brown, bony casque sits atop the head.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep booming calls, hisses, and rumbles, often used for communication over long distances in dense forest.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, dense forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northeastern Queensland, Australia, and parts of New Guinea and the Aru Islands.
Identifying Featureslarge bony casque on head, bright blue and red unfeathered head and neck, large, flightless body with coarse black plumage, dagger-like claw on inner toe
Description
The Southern Cassowary is a large, flightless bird native to the tropical rainforests of northeastern Australia and New Guinea. It is known for its striking appearance, featuring a prominent bony casque on its head and vibrant blue and red coloration on its neck and face.
