Takhi
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.
Sydney
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
Scroll across and tap the icon to reveal lion facts.
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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
An emu can weigh up to 70kg!
3-4 eggs
Clutch
Habitat:
Secluded forests and caves along the coast
Distribution:
South-western New Zealand, Stewart Island, and other offshore islands
Up to 20 years
Life Span
Diet:
Small fish and larvae, crustaceans, squid and krill
Up to 55cm
Size
Mating
Pairs nest in June in secluded areas, not in large colonies
33 days
Incubation
World Penguin Day
25th April
70kg
An emu can weigh up to 70kg!
3-4 eggs
Clutch
Habitat:
Secluded forests and caves along the coast
Distribution:
South-western New Zealand, Stewart Island, and other offshore islands
Up to 20 years
Life Span
Diet:
Small fish and larvae, crustaceans, squid and krill
Up to 55cm
Size
Mating
Pairs nest in June in secluded areas, not in large colonies
33 days
Incubation
World Penguin Day
25th April
Southern Cassowary - Deep Dive
Conservation status (IUCN)
Endangered
Cassowary Conservation
Queensland’s cassowary population is classed as Endangered. Habitat loss and fragmentation are primary threats to the species, as are dog attacks and road collisions. Hand feeding of cassowaries brings them closer to human populations, putting both people and cassowaries at risk
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.
