Cassowary Facts: The World's Most Dangerous Bird

Cassowaries are large flightless birds considered the most dangerous birds in the world due to powerful legs and sharp claws up to five inches long. These impressive birds stand five to six feet tall and weigh seventy five to one hundred thirty pounds.

Why They Have Seven Inch Helmets

Cassowaries have distinctive blue and purple skin on their heads and necks with bright red or orange wattles hanging from the throat. The most recognizable feature is the casque, a large bony helmet structure on top of the head. This casque can grow up to seven inches tall and is made of keratin over a core of bone and cartilage. Recent research suggests it may help regulate body temperature.

How They Kill With Five Inch Claws

Cassowaries have earned their reputation as the world's most dangerous birds through documented attacks on humans. When threatened or cornered, cassowaries defend themselves aggressively using powerful kicks. They can run up to thirty one mph and jump five feet vertically. They only attack when they feel trapped or threatened.

Why Two Hundred Thirty Eight Plants Need Them

Cassowaries consume over two hundred thirty eight different fruit species from rainforest trees. Their digestive systems can process fruits that are toxic to other animals. Cassowaries play irreplaceable roles as seed dispersers in rainforest ecosystems. Some seeds only germinate after passing through cassowary digestive systems.

How Males Incubate Eggs Alone

After mating, the female cassowary lays three to five large green eggs in a nest on the ground. Once eggs are laid, the female departs and takes no further role in raising young. The male incubates eggs for fifty to fifty two days leaving only briefly to feed and drink. During incubation, males lose significant body weight and become aggressive toward any threats.

Why They Swim Between Islands

Cassowaries cannot fly but are excellent swimmers and will cross rivers and swim in ocean waters between islands. They are solitary birds that come together only for breeding. Communication includes deep booming calls that can be heard over long distances through dense rainforest. Cassowaries follow regular routes through their territories visiting fruiting trees.

How Habitat Loss Threatens Them

All three cassowary species face serious conservation challenges. The southern cassowary is classified as vulnerable while the northern and dwarf cassowaries are endangered. Primary threats include habitat loss from logging, agriculture, and development. Road mortality is a major threat in Australia where cassowaries cross roads between forest fragments.