Cassowary

Cassowary Facts

• Perhaps most notably, the deceptively simple term Cassowary actually applies to an entire genus of large flightless birds. Currently, three species still exist, however. The species named the Southern Cassowary, though, remains by far the most common of the three varieties.
• These magnificent creatures stand out for several different reasons. For one, among known similar birds, this fascinating animal ranks as the second heaviest, and also third tallest of them all. Those distinctions alone serve to distinguish this avian marvel from its peers.
• Yet the natural wonder’s distinctiveness doesn’t simply end there. That’s due to the fact that the truly unique birds generally remain quite reclusive in nature. The fascinating avians also continue to prove themselves to be highly elusive, making detailed studies complicated.
• But, the impressive species additionally remains quite shy in terms of their behavior, even to a much greater extent than most wild animals. Due to this trait, the large birds also continue to be well known for heir ability to rapidly disappear into the dense rainforest when approached.
• The surprising animals generally have a remarkably reclusive demeanor, as well, when encounters with man do occur. If provoked, however, the amazing creatures do have the ability to inflict serious, possibly even fatal, injuries to humans. That’s because of their powerful legs.
• For the moment, the IUCN has no listing for any of the species of Cassowary on its Red List of Threatened Species. They does face various threats, however. Habitat loss represents a growing problem, as with many creatures. And of course, climate change poses a potential threat.

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Cassowary Physical Description

No matter which of the forms of Cassowary one’s fortunate to encounter, the experience typically makes a strong impression on the viewer. That effect usually occurs, however, due to a combination of several specific factors. That’s true since it’s both a highly distinctive and quite large bird.

Like many creatures around the world, both avians and others, the amazing birds display a comparatively moderate degree of sexual dimorphism. Due to this natural physiological trait, among all three species of this marvel of Nature, this trait appears in terms of both appearance and size.

Males of all members of the group generally develop as notably larger and heavier than the females. This size difference often manifests as being quite significant, with males often reaching weights equaling up to 154 lb (70 kg), while females typically weigh less. They’re also moderately taller.

The feathers of the female Cassowary also generally appear more colorful than those of the male of any of the species. Their wings remain vestigial and also extremely small. The legs develop as powerful, however. Individuals have the ability to run at speeds of as much as 31 mph (50 km/h).

The fabulous animals also have a long, sharp claw that evolved on the middle of each of the three toes. This talon sometimes grows to a length measuring as much as 5 in (12.6 cm). This serves as a very powerful means of self defense, since the birds can strike with great force and accuracy.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Casuariiformes
• Family: Casuariidae
• Genus: Casuariius

Cassowary Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Unfortunately for those who appreciate these magnificent creatures, the amazing Cassowary evolved as endemic to a range that’s both highly limited and specific. That’s due to the fact that this marvel of Nature and evolution evolved as native to the extremely wet and humid rainforest.

Sadly, all varieties also only occur naturally in a few very specific areas. These regions include the island nation of New Guinea, northeastern Australia, and local islands. For the moment, experts have been unable to find any evidence of the flightless marvels ever existing outside that range.

The remarkable creatures display decidedly strong preferences regarding their choices of habitat. Most examples thus mainly appear in the tropical rainforests and adjacent woodlands within their native range. It also has a tendency to wander into grasslands, savanna, and swampy regions.

These wondrous works of evolution additionally demonstrate strong flexibility regarding altitudes for their habitat. That’s because populations appear at a wide range of elevations within their habitat range. These frequently extend from sea level up to around 4,900 ft (1,500 m) above sea level.

Except for mating season, all forms of the beautiful Cassowary usually live as solitary creatures. Females further appear to be highly territorial in behavioral patterns, while the males seem to be much less so. The females also typically claim larger territories for themselves than do most males.

This biological beauty feeds as an omnivore, dining on a highly diverse diet that includes numerous fruits, berries, seeds, insects, small vertebrates, and even carrion. It also constitutes an apex predator in its local ecosystem, with very few natural predators capable of preying on adult birds.

The amazing bird also possesses the ability to deliver a serious, even fatal blow with its dangerous claw, as previously mentioned. Though attacks on humans rarely occur, there have been serious injuries, even fatalities reported. Nature designed it with a means of defending itself quite well.

Overall, this marvel represents an integral component of the rainforest ecosystem, contributing to in such ways as seed dispersal, vegetation structure, and biodiversity. Protecting their populations and habitat continues to be essential for maintaining the health and functioning of these ecosystems.

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