The Cassowary Is the World’s Most Dangerous Bird

There are three different species of cassowaries: the northern cassowary, southern cassowary and dwarf cassowary. The southern cassowary, often found in Northern Queensland and New Guinea, is known for its striking appearance, with bristly feathers, a vivid blue face, two red wattles and a prominent helmet, or casque.

“Of the three species of cassowaries, only the northern and southern cassowaries have wattles,” Schwartz says. “It is thought that they can help communicate the bird’s current demeanor, indicate an individual bird’s vitality to other cassowaries or give other cues and communications only known by cassowaries at this time.”

The bird’s casque is made of keratin, the same protein that the bird’s feathers, nails and beak are made of, according to Schwartz. “The outer covering is thick and hard,” he says, “but the inside is very porous.”

Schwartz continues, “The purpose of the casque is not completely understood, but several theories exist — including that it can help amplify vocalizations, serve as head protection as the bird pushes headfirst through the dense forest, or it may be another way for the birds to display age and vitality.”