Australia Zoo Welcome First Ever Cassowary Chicks

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: December 10, 2021 12:01 am

Fergo the southern cassowary chick explores at Australia Zoo following his birth

Photo Credit: Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo have welcomed the first southern cassowary chick in their 51 year history, an important step in the conservation of this threatened species. So far they have welcomed three chicks this breeding season.

“The cassowary chicks’ parents, Kevin and Babinda, laid two separate clutches of eggs. Once the first clutch was laid, Kevin wasn’t interested in sitting on the eggs. Our team stepped in to artificially incubate the eggs whilst the couple mated and produced a second clutch of eggs,” said Natalie Mckenzie, Head of Birds.

“After 48 days of incubating the first clutch, one of the eggs successfully hatched and the little ball of feathers was lovingly named Fergo,” Natalie said.

“Kevin was much more attentive to the second clutch, and nurtured them over the last few weeks. This week two of the eggs he was sitting on have hatched!” she said.

The southern cassowary has developed a fearsome reputation due to the long toenails which they can use to strike out at threats. These birds are heavy and unable to fly.

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“We are so excited to have these extraordinary baby chicks become part of our Australia Zoo family, as this brings us one step closer towards ensuring their population thrives for future generations,” said wildlife conservationist Bindi Irwin.

Australia Zoo are working to build an insurance colony of these birds through this breeding project.

“Our first cassowary chick, Fergo, is doing really well and loves eating blueberries! The chick is spending time in a purpose-built area at Australia Zoo, where guests can see him exploring,” Natalie said.

“The two other newly hatched chicks are currently spending time with their Dad, following Kevin wherever he goes. They will continue to rest, giving them the time to grow and develop their long legs,” she said.

Learn more about Southern Cassowaries here – Southern Cassowary Fact File | The Animal Facts

Learn more about Australia Zoo on their website – Australia Zoo