Cheetah
Scientific nameCasuarius casuarius
Conservation status (IUCN)
Endangered
Cassowaries are the largest animal in Australia’s rainforests. While not usually aggressive, they have the reputation as the most dangerous bird in the world due to their powerful kick and long sharp claws.
Visitor tips for Sydney
9.30 am
Morning feed
2-2.30 pm
Afternoon feed
2.00 pm
Keeper talk (school holidays only)
Fast facts about the Southern Cassowary
We bet you didn't know these facts about the Southern Cassowary
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The helmet-like structure coming from the Cassowaries head is called a ‘Casque’
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Cassowaries, like all birds are descendants of ancient dinosaurs called ‘Theropods.’
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Cassowaries are solitary animals; they only come together to mate.
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A Cassowary’s casque fully develops after the bird has reached sexual maturity, from 3-5 years of age.
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They have powerful, scaly legs and three-toed feet (like the T-rex!)
Did you know...
70kg
3-4 eggs
Habitat:
Distribution:
Up to 20 years
Diet:
Up to 55cm
Mating
33 days
World Penguin Day
70kg
3-4 eggs
Habitat:
Distribution:
Up to 20 years
Diet:
Up to 55cm
Mating
33 days
World Penguin Day
Southern Cassowary - Deep Dive
Breeding programs
Taronga hosts the species breeding program for this animal through the Zoos and Aquarium Association (ZAA). This means we work with experts across Australasia to manage animal populations, not just to breed, but also support important husbandry knowledge, safeguarding this species for the future. 
Conservation status (IUCN)
Endangered
Cassowary Conservation
Act for the Wild
You can help protect the Southern Cassowary by choosing FSC-certified products when you shop to help end the clearing of their habitat.
