Casuaridae

Cassowaries are flightless birds related to Emu (Dromaius novaehollandia). There are just three species, all are uncommon and difficult to observe in the wild, so comparatively little is known about them. They are vulnerable to habitat loss and hunting; Dwarf Cassowary (Casuaris bennetti), in particular, is classified as Near Threatened, and is absent in many areas due to hunting pressure. 

Additional information

Cassowaries walk slowly through the forest, foraging on the ground or from low vegetation. They are shy birds, but can kick with great force when threatened.

Southern Cassowary (Casuaris casuaris) breeds in the dry season, June to November, usually nesting close to a tree trunk or in grasses at the forest edge. The nest is a rudimentary collection of leaves and plant litter, in which three to five large, coarse-shelled, pale green eggs are laid. The male carries out most of the parental duties, and remains with the young for around nine months.

Taxonomy

There are just three species in this family, all in the genus Casuaris:

• C. casuaris (Southern Cassowary)
• C. bennetti (Dwarf Cassowary)
• C. unappendiculatus (Northern Cassowary) 

    Casuaris casuaris