Dwarf Cassowary

Overview

The Dwarf Cassowary is the smallest of the three cassowary species and inhabits montane rainforest of New Guinea, generally at higher elevations than its relatives. Like other cassowaries, it is covered in coarse, hair-like black plumage, with bare blue skin on the face and upper neck. Unlike the Northern and Southern Cassowary, it lacks throat wattles and has a comparatively low, small casque.

Feather Identification

• Body feathers: Coarse and hair-like with double-shafted feathers lacking interlocking barbules, glossy black overall.
• Head and neck: Bare and colored blue, without the throat wattle(s) seen in the other two cassowary species.
• Casque: Low and small compared to the Northern and Southern Cassowary.
• Versus similar cassowaries: The Northern Cassowary has a taller casque and a single wattle; the Southern Cassowary has two wattles and a taller casque. The Dwarf Cassowary's small size and lack of wattles are the best distinguishing features.

Plumage Notes

Sexes are similar in color, with females typically larger. Juveniles are striped brown and buff for camouflage, gradually molting to solid black plumage as they mature.

Habitat & Range

The Dwarf Cassowary is found in montane rainforest of New Guinea, generally at higher elevations than the other cassowary species. It is solitary and non-migratory.

Behavior & Field Notes

Dwarf Cassowaries forage on the forest floor for fallen fruit, favoring higher-elevation forest than their relatives. They are solitary and elusive, rarely seen, and capable of delivering powerful kicks if threatened. Males incubate the eggs and care for the chicks. Vocalizations include low booming and rumbling notes.