Do cassowaries make good pets? No, definitely not. The wild birds are native to northern Australia and Papa New Guinea and are considered the world’s most dangerous birds. But what is really true about all the myths? Are they really that dangerous? Read on to learn more about what it would be like to keep a cassowary as a pet.
I know, cassowaries are beautiful birds. It can be tempting to own such an exotic pet, especially for bird lovers. However, for most people, this species wouldn’t be the right choice, Do cassowaries make good pets?
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Is It Legal To Own A Pet Cassowary?
In general, birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the USA. Even though this is not true for cassowaries because they are not native, you could run into regulatory issues easily.
These large birds aren’t considered dangerous without a reason. So you would need a special permit if you want to own one. All the requirements must be met. These include a proper enclosure for the pet birds as well as a safe setup.
As laws can vary widely between different states and even counties or cities, you should contact your local department of agriculture.
Are Cassowaries Domesticated?
Actually, the old Australian tribes raised and bred cassowaries as working birds and to harvest their eggs.
However, that was long ago and you can’t compare this to the long period of domesticating chickens and other poultry.
Even if our ancestors managed to raise birds that were somewhat tame, today’s cassowaries can’t be considered domesticated.
You would still deal with a wild bird and its instincts.
Are Cassowaries Dangerous?
Yes, all wild animals can be considered dangerous in one way or another. Cassowaries are not known to be especially aggressive towards humans. But attacks can happen and they can also be fatal.
Cassowaries have 4-inch-long claws which they use to protect themselves. And that’s how most accidents happen. People aren’t aware of the sheer strength and even less of the wild instincts that can kick in quickly.
Attacks are most likely the result of human misbehavior and happen when people try to feed or pet one of these gigantic birds.
Cassowaries Are Large Birds
After ostriches, cassowaries are the second largest bird on earth. They can weigh up to over 100 lbs and become 7 feet tall. Additionally, they can run about 31 miles per hour.
Even though they are flightless birds like penguins, you can imagine what this means for the enclosure you would need.
There is nothing sadder than pets that are kept in too small runs. I bet even your whole backyard couldn’t satisfy the need for movement of a cassowary. But at least you wouldn’t have to care about getting a whole flock as these birds are mostly solitaire.
The Problem With Vet Care
It’s the same as with every very exotic and potentially dangerous pet: Veterinary care is always hard to find.
You can’t just visit the local vet. Because of the size of the bird alone, you would need someone who is willing to visit the bird at your place. Additionally, the person needs to have at least some experience with birds of this size.
A Cassowary Will Rule Your Life
Yes, it’s really true. People who are thinking about getting such an exotic pet often forget what this would mean for their lives.
You would need to clean up the enclosure daily and birds of this size make a mess you can’t imagine. Plan in some hours every day and don’t forget that the lifespan in captivity can reach up to 50 years.
How to Care for a Pet Cassowary
Cassowaries are large, flightless birds native to the tropical forests of New Guinea, northern Australia, and nearby islands. They are strikingly beautiful, with vivid blue and black plumage and a helmet-like casques on their heads. However, despite their beauty, they are not typically considered good pets due to their size, strength, and unpredictable nature.
1. Size and Space Requirements
Cassowaries are large birds, often standing up to 6 feet tall and weighing between 120-170 pounds (54-77 kg). They require vast amounts of space to roam and forage, so keeping one in captivity can be extremely challenging. A typical backyard or even a large yard is simply not enough room for a cassowary to thrive. They need an environment similar to their natural habitat, such as a tropical or subtropical area with dense vegetation and plenty of room for them to move around.
2. Diet
Cassowaries are omnivores, but their diet primarily consists of fruit, seeds, fungi, and small animals like insects and small reptiles. They have been known to help spread seeds, playing a vital role in the ecosystems they inhabit. If you plan on keeping a cassowary, you’ll need to provide a well-balanced diet. A diet consisting of fresh fruits like bananas, papayas, and other tropical fruits, as well as some high-quality poultry pellets, would likely be necessary. However, ensuring a cassowary’s diet is both nutritionally balanced and safe for them can be tricky and requires extensive research.
3. Housing and Enclosure
Due to their size and territorial nature, cassowaries require large, secure enclosures. They are strong and aggressive birds, capable of inflicting serious injuries with their powerful legs and sharp claws. The enclosures must be tall, sturdy, and provide both ground space and climbing opportunities. High fencing is essential, as cassowaries are strong enough to jump or push over barriers. The enclosure should also provide plenty of environmental enrichment to keep them mentally stimulated, such as trees for perching, large rocks, and space to dig or forage.
4. Temperament
Cassowaries are known for their aggressive behavior, especially during the breeding season or when they feel threatened. They are territorial birds, and their unpredictable nature can make them dangerous to handle. The sharp claws on their feet can be used to kick with immense force, capable of severely injuring or even killing a person or other animals. Their defensive instincts are strong, so they should never be handled casually or without proper experience.
5. Legal Considerations
In many places, keeping a cassowary as a pet is illegal or highly regulated due to their size, aggressive nature, and conservation status. They are protected by law in some areas, and obtaining a cassowary without proper permits may result in fines or legal consequences. It’s essential to research your local regulations before considering the idea of keeping a cassowary.
6. Health and Veterinary Care
Like all exotic animals, cassowaries require specialized care from a veterinarian experienced with large birds. Routine checkups, vaccinations, and care for any potential injuries or health issues should be expected. Their unique diet and natural habitat make them particularly challenging to care for, so you’ll need to work closely with an avian vet who understands their specific needs.
7. Conservation Status
The cassowary is listed as a vulnerable species, especially the Southern Cassowary, due to habitat destruction and human encroachment. Breeding cassowaries in captivity should be approached with caution, as their wild populations are already under threat. If you’re interested in these birds, supporting conservation efforts through donations or education may be a better way to help than attempting to keep one as a pet.
8. The Problem with Vet Care
Owning a cassowary also presents difficulties when it comes to veterinary care. Due to their size and the uniqueness of the species, it is rare to find a veterinarian who is both experienced with large birds and willing to treat a cassowary. In many cases, you may need to arrange for a vet to visit your home, which can be both expensive and difficult to find.
Are Cassowaries Dangerous?
Yes, cassowaries are indeed dangerous. In fact, they are considered the world’s most dangerous bird. While they don’t typically seek out human interaction, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened. Their primary defense mechanism is a set of sharp, 4-inch-long claws that they use to kick and slash. In the wild, they might use these claws to fend off predators, and in captivity, these instincts can lead to dangerous encounters, particularly if they are startled or feel cornered.
Most attacks on humans occur when people attempt to feed or handle these birds. While cassowaries aren’t inherently aggressive, their strength, speed, and natural territorial behavior make them risky to approach. In fact, there have been instances where cassowaries have fatally injured their owners or caretakers. This is why it’s essential to keep a safe distance and avoid attempting to pet or handle them.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Pet Cassowary?
In conclusion, while cassowaries are beautiful and fascinating creatures, they are not suited to life as a pet for most people. Their wild instincts, large size, and potential for aggression make them dangerous and difficult to manage. Additionally, their care requirements and legal restrictions make owning one a complex and costly endeavor. For those looking to care for an exotic bird, it’s probably best to look into safer, more domesticated options.
If you’re fascinated by cassowaries, consider supporting conservation efforts to protect them in the wild rather than trying to domesticate one. The world is better off with these magnificent birds thriving in their natural habitats.
