Where “Cassowary” Comes From
The cassowary is a large flightless bird with dark feathers, a bright blue neck and a helmet-like crest called a casque on its head. It lives in the tropical rainforests of far north Queensland.
It’s one of the biggest birds in Australia and plays an important part in the rainforest by spreading seeds.
“A cassowary crossed the road in front of us.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it in far north Queensland, in travel advice and road signs.
In Real Life
Cassowaries are shy in the wild, but a bird that feels cornered or has been fed by people can be dangerous. Road signs warn drivers in places such as Mission Beach and the Daintree, because vehicle strikes are a threat to the species. Cassowaries are listed as endangered in parts of their range, so protecting their habitat matters. Visitors should watch from a distance and follow park advice.
Quick Questions
Are cassowaries dangerous?
They can be if they feel threatened or are fed by people. Keep your distance and never feed them.
Where do cassowaries live?
In tropical rainforest in far north Queensland, and in parts of New Guinea.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: KAS-uh-wair-ee.
In conversation:
- Watch for cassowaries on the road.
- The cassowary is a big bird.
- We saw a cassowary in the rainforest.
Good to know: Cassowaries can be dangerous if they feel threatened or are fed. Keep your distance, never feed them, and drive slowly in cassowary country.
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