The cassowary, a large, flightless bird native to the tropical forests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia, often captures public attention due to its formidable reputation. Known for its striking appearance, featuring a vibrant blue head and neck, black plumage, and a bony casque atop its head, this avian species is widely considered one of the most dangerous birds in the world. This article explores the attributes and interactions that contribute to the cassowary’s dangerous nature.
Physical Attributes Contributing to Danger
Cassowaries possess physical features that contribute to their dangerous potential. They are imposing birds, with the southern cassowary, the most common species, reaching heights of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) and females weighing up to 187 pounds (85 kilograms), with males around 120 pounds (55 kilograms). These large birds are equipped with powerful legs, enabling them to run at speeds up to 31 miles per hour (50 km/h) through dense forest undergrowth.
Each of their three-toed feet features a dagger-like claw on the inner toe, which can measure up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) long. This sharp claw is capable of inflicting severe injuries, including deep lacerations, puncture wounds, and potentially internal damage. While the casque, a helmet-like structure on their head, has been theorized to aid in pushing through vegetation or for heat regulation, their powerful legs and claws remain their primary means of defense.
Cassowary Behavior and Triggers
Cassowary behavior further underscores their dangerous nature. These birds are generally solitary and reclusive, preferring to avoid human interaction within their dense rainforest habitats. However, they can become aggressive when provoked, threatened, or startled.
Common triggers for aggressive behavior include feeling cornered, defending food sources, or perceiving a threat to their young. Male cassowaries are particularly protective of their chicks, and approaching a family group can elicit a defensive charge. A factor contributing to aggression is when cassowaries become accustomed to being fed by humans, leading them to associate people with food and become bolder or more demanding.
Documented Incidents and Human Interactions
Despite their capabilities, documented attacks on humans are rare, but they highlight the potential for injury. A 2003 study analyzing 221 cassowary attacks found that 150 were against humans, with 75% of these incidents involving birds that had been fed by people. Injuries sustained from cassowary encounters can include severe lacerations, deep puncture wounds, broken bones, and internal bleeding.
While fatalities are uncommon, two human deaths have been officially recorded. The first occurred in Australia in 1926 when a 16-year-old boy, attempting to kill a cassowary, fell and was fatally injured by a kick to the neck. More recently, in 2019, a 75-year-old owner of a captive cassowary in Florida died after falling in the bird’s enclosure and being attacked. These incidents often arise when individuals fall to the ground, placing themselves within striking range of the cassowary’s powerful kicks and claws.
Safe Coexistence Strategies
To minimize the risk of dangerous encounters with cassowaries, several safe coexistence strategies should be followed. Never feed cassowaries, as this habituates them to humans and can lead to aggressive behavior when food is not provided. Always maintain a safe distance from these birds and avoid approaching them, especially if they have chicks.
If a cassowary is encountered, remain calm and back away slowly, avoiding sudden movements. Do not run, as cassowaries are much faster than humans. If a cassowary charges, try to put a barrier between yourself and the bird, such as a backpack or a tree, and remain standing rather than crouching or falling to the ground.