Cassowary << KAS uh `wehr` ee >> is a large, shy bird that lives in the thick forests of Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands. Cassowaries cannot fly. Cassowaries have a massive body, long legs, and a featherless but brightly colored neck and head. The neck and head are usually bright blue, but can also be an orange or reddish hue. A bony helmet, used for butting through undergrowth, covers the bird’s head.
There are three living species (kinds) of cassowaries: the northern cassowary, the southern cassowary, and the dwarf cassowary. The northern cassowary of New Guinea is the largest, standing about 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall and weighing about 120 pounds (54 kilograms). It is also known as the single-wattled cassowary. Its wings and tail are small and almost hidden. Brownish-black, bristlelike feathers cover the body. Each foot has three toes armed with sharp claws. These claws are deadly weapons in a fight.
The cassowary is the largest fruit-eating bird in the world. The bird also feeds on insects and other small animals.
Female cassowaries lay large green eggs in shallow holes in the ground. The males raise and feed the chicks.
In a few cases, cassowaries have attacked and even killed people, usually when provoked. But cassowaries usually avoid people. Cassowary numbers have declined greatly. Few remain in Australia. The birds are threatened mainly by deforestation (destruction of forests).
