The Southern Cassowary (Casuarius casarius) of Australia is is the third largest bird in the world, after the ostrich and emu.
Adult Southern Cassowaries are to m (5 to 6 feet) tall, although some may reach 2m (6 feet 8 inches), and weigh about 60 kilograms (130 pounds). They are primarily forest dwellers and are threatened by development. The cassowary's three-toed feet have sharp claws; the dagger-like middle claw is 120 mm (5 inches) long. The Cassowary can use it to kill an enemy, disemboweling it with a single kick. When disturbed, they are a deadly danger to humans. This one is cautiously attended to by its keepers in a Louisiana zoo. They can run up to 50 km/h (32 mph) through the dense forest. They can jump up to m (5 feet). All species have a horn-like crests called casques on their heads. No one is certain about the purpose of this raptor like feature. They feed on a variety of fruits in the rain forest.
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