Cardwell cassowary incident
Issued: 1 Apr 2025
A Cardwell man was taken to Tully Hospital on Friday 28 March 2025 after reportedly being kicked in the leg by an adult cassowary, which resulted in a 2-3 inch deep wound to his upper thigh.
The man was treated for a minor injury following the interaction with the cassowary and reported the incident to the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
According to the report, the man was in his backyard with his back to the bird when the cassowary approached him and kicked him in the back of the leg.
On 31 March 2025, wildlife rangers will conduct a site visit and assess the behaviour of the cassowary if it remains in the area.
The behaviour of the cassowary is consistent of a cassowary that has become accustomed to being fed. It’s a good reminder to the public not to be complacent when they are in close proximity to these animals.
People who live in the wet tropics are reminded that cassowaries are large animals and can act in an unpredictable way, which can include dangerous behaviour.
Cassowaries should never be fed or given access to food. This can cause them to become habituated and begin to approach people expecting food. Cassowaries have been known to become aggressive when approaching people for food but not receiving any.
People can help preserve wild populations of cassowaries by being Cass-O-Wary:
- Never approach cassowaries.
- Never approach chicks – male cassowaries will defend them.
- Never feed cassowaries – it is illegal and can be dangerous for the birds and for humans.
- Always discard food scraps in closed bins and ensure compost bins have secure lids.
- Always slow down when driving in cassowary territory.
- Never stop your vehicle to look at cassowaries on the road.
- Keep dogs behind fences or on a leash.
Cassowary sightings in north Queensland should be reported to QPWS by calling 1300 130 372.