Chordate Zoology - Textbook - I. V. Tsaryk - 2013

Chapter 5. SUPERCLASS TETRAPODS (TERRESTRIAL VERTEBRATES) TETRAPODA, seu QUADRIPEDA.

ANAMNIANS (ANAMNIA) AND AMNIOTES (AMNIOTA)

5.3. CLASS BIRDS AVES

5.3.3. Systematics and characteristics of representatives of the main orders of the class Aves

5.3.3.2. Superorder Typical, or Neognathous Birds Neognathae

5.3.3.2.3. Order Cassowaries Casuariiformes

Flightless ratite birds native to Australia. The steppes and shrub deserts of Australia are inhabited by the emu Dromaius novae-hollandiae, brown-colored birds weighing up to 40-55 kg. They feed on plant vegetation and can cause damage to crops. The female lays 8-10 eggs; the male incubates them and tends to the chicks. Outside the breeding season, they gather in flocks of several dozen individuals. The forests of New Guinea and Northeastern Australia are home to three species of cassowaries Casuarius sp. (Fig. 5.45, 4). These are large, black birds weighing up to 80-90 kg, featuring bare, brightly colored blue or red Skin patches on the HEAD and Neck. A horny casque (helmet) is developed on the head. They live solitarily or in small groups, feeding on fruits. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which are incubated by the male, who also raises the brood.