If Jurassic Park had a bird section, the Cassowary would undoubtedly be its star attraction. Sporting dagger-like claws, an imposing stature, and a demeanor as friendly as a T-rex, this feathered terror is often likened to a modern dinosaur.
Belonging to the unique family of Casuariidae, the Cassowary, also known as the Crested Bird, stands tall at around 1.2 meters when fully grown. Its striking features include a remarkable helmet-like casque on its head, and a neck adorned in brilliant hues of red and blue. With its dinosaurian qualities, you’d almost expect this creature to roar rather than chirp or coo.
Native to Australia and New Guinea, Cassowaries are not exactly the kind of birds you’d invite to a Sunday brunch. Their aggressive nature, coupled with their surprising speed (up to 50 km/h), makes them a force to reckon with. Add to this their lethal, dagger-like claws, and you’ve got an unexpected threat to anyone crossing their path.
Now, think about that for a moment. Imagine the surprise of an unsuspecting logger when a bird – yes, a bird – launches an attack worthy of a Hollywood action movie. There have been actual instances of Cassowaries attacking and killing people who’ve accidentally ventured too close. The most recent of these grim incidents occurred in Florida, USA, in April 2019 when a captive Cassowary killed its owner after he presumably stumbled into its territory.
Given their formidable aggression and killer kicks, it’s hardly surprising that Cassowaries are often compared to modern dinosaurs. It’s a chilling thought, isn’t it? While we’ve grown up learning to admire the beauty and serenity of birds, here’s one that defies the stereotype with its sheer ferocity.
So, the next time you hear a rustling in the undergrowth and catch a glimpse of brilliant blue and red feathers, remember this: you may be looking at a Cassowary, a modern-day dinosaur in the bird world. I don’t know about you, but I’d be grabbing my binoculars and keeping a very safe distance. But then again, who doesn’t love a good adventure, right?
