Be Cass-O-wary

Cassowaries are an endangered species found throughout the rainforests and nearby woodlands and swamps of North Queensland.

These large flightless birds play an important role in the dispersal of rainforest plant seeds.

Cassowary populations face a variety of threats and, as habitat disappears, human contact with cassowaries is increasing.

• Never approach cassowaries.

• Never approach chicks—male cassowaries will defend them.

• Never feed cassowaries—it is illegal, dangerous and has caused cassowary deaths.

• Always slow down when driving in cassowary territory.

• Always keep dogs behind fences or on a leash.

• Always discard food scraps in closed bins.