Southern Cassowary
NameSouthern Cassowary
Common NameSouthern Cassowary
Scientific NameCasuarius casuarius
FamilyCasuariidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)150
Weight (g)58500
Plumage DetailsThe body is covered in coarse, glossy black feathers. The head and neck are largely featherless, displaying brilliant blue, purple, and red skin, with two long, red wattles hanging from the throat. A prominent brown, helmet-like casque sits atop its head.
Vocalization / CallSouthern Cassowaries produce deep booming calls, hisses, and rumbles. These low-frequency sounds can travel long distances through dense rainforest vegetation.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, swamp forest, eucalyptus forest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in the tropical rainforests of northeastern Australia (Queensland), New Guinea, and some surrounding islands.
Identifying Featureslarge casque on head, bright blue and red bare skin on head and neck, two red wattles, glossy black plumage, flightless, large size
Description
The Southern Cassowary is a large, flightless bird native to the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia. It is characterized by its distinctive helmet-like casque, vibrant blue and red bare skin on its head and neck, and coarse black plumage. Despite its shy nature, it can be formidable, known for its powerful legs and sharp claws.
