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northern cassowary
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northern cassowary

bird
Also known as: Casuarius unappendiculatus
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Quick Summary

The northern cassowary (Casuarius unappendiculatus) is a large, flightless bird native to the northern lowlands of New Guinea. Cassowaries belong to the family Casuariidae and the order Casuariiformes, which also includes the emu.12

These birds have a distinctive blue, naked head and a bony casque, or helmet, on top. Their bodies are covered in black plumage as adults. Cassowaries are omnivores, feeding on fruits and small animals. They are known for their powerful legs and sharp, dagger-like claws on their inner toes, which they can use defensively. The male typically incubates the eggs and cares for the young.12

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  1. cassowary
  2. casuariiform

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