While nature is without a doubt absolutely beautiful, it can also be ruthless and dangerous. This rule is valid for everything, including humans. It can never be said enough, while on a nature excursion, stay on the beaten track. Going off it involves a high risk even for the most experienced adventurers.
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Many have risked their lives. According to Outside magazine, there are many ways to die in nature, but among all of them one stands out due to its severity. Much more radical and painful than drowning or ingesting a poisonous substance, it comes about from an attack from the cassowary.
The most dangerous bird in the world
If you have never heard of it before, know that it is a type of bird and that it is considered to be the most dangerous in the world. It is found mainly in Indonesia, New Guinea and northeastern Australia.
Like the ostrich, the cassowary (Casuarius casuarius) is unable to fly and for good reason, it weighs on average 70 kilograms and measures between 5 and 6 feet tall. Although the animal is particularly fearful, it can turn into a real threat if it feels it is in danger.
The secret of its flawless attack lies in its powerful legs, each with a claw almost 5 inches long and as slender as a dagger. It is capable of mortally wounding its opponent with one stroke, and the bird is particularly good at handling this weapon. To do this it jumps into the air and skewers his target with the blade.
To make matters even worse, the cassowary can run up to 30 miles per hour and jump 5 feet into the air. Humans are not immune to these attacks, and several cases have been documented in recent years.
Threatening birds
According to wildlife conservation experts, the behaviour of these endangered birds has evolved to become more fearless and hostile. This was caused by the bad habits perpetuated by tourists passing by or even local residents.
By being approached and fed by humans, cassowaries ended up not fearing them anymore. Some even charge cars or break into homes, threatening residents until their hunger is satisfied. This is a real nightmare, and these creatures can be even more aggressive when it comes to protecting their young.
Its title of most dangerous bird in the world has even been recognised by Guinness World Records. To contain these risky situations, authorities recommend avoiding contact with these animals. In the case of coming face to face with a cassowary, get out of there as quickly as possible.
