Southern Cassowary

The Southern Cassowary is distinguished by its dense, glossy black plumage, composed of long, coarse, hair-like feathers that cascade over its rounded body with a subtle charcoal sheen. In striking contrast, its featherless head and neck display vivid shades of electric cobalt, turquoise, and deep indigo, transitioning into rich violet near the base of the neck. Two elongated, crimson-red wattles hang from the throat, accented by warm coral and scarlet tones. A prominent horn-like casque rises above the head in muted shades of earthy brown, slate, and charcoal. Together, these dramatic colors create a striking contrast between the bird's dark, textured plumage and its brilliantly colored skin.

Family

Casuariidae

Region

Oceania

Range

New Guinea/Australia

Habitat

Rainforest

Dominant color

Black

Conservation status

Least Concern