About Cassowaries and Emus

Overview

Casuariiformes unite the cassowaries (Casuariidae) of New Guinea and north-eastern Australia and the emu (Dromaiidae) of Australia, all large, flightless birds of forest and open woodland. Cassowaries are strikingly coloured, with a bony casque on the head and dangerous, dagger-like claws, whereas the emu is a tall, brown, shaggy-plumaged bird. Both are important seed dispersers in their ecosystems and are among the heaviest birds alive, as well as being culturally significant across Australasia.

Classification

The order Cassowaries and Emus (Latin: CASUARIIFORMES) comprises 1 families and roughly 4 living species. It is one of 44 orders that make up the class Aves.

Diversity & Distribution

Casuariiformes unite the cassowaries (Casuariidae) of New Guinea and north-eastern Australia and the emu (Dromaiidae) of Australia, all large, flightless birds of forest and open woodland.

Notable Families

Cassowaries, Emu and others.