BIRDS. 
115 
THE CASSOWARY. 
5. The Cassowary is a native of the islands of 
the Indian Ocean, and was first brought from Java 
by the Dutch. Its neck is shorter than that of the os- 
trich ; its body is very thick and heavy ; its wings aj*e 
very small, and covered by the feathers on its back. 
6. On the top of the head is a blackish protuber- 
ance of bone, somewhat like a helmet. Hence the 
Cassowary is said to have the head of a warrior. 
The eye is of a bright-yellow, and, being very large, 
has a formidable expression. 
7. The Cassowary is about five and a half feet 
long. The head and neck are destitute of feathers, 
and of a fine blue colour above, and red below. It 
is a strong and active bird, and has the fleetness of 
the ostrich. It is, however, very timid, and depends 
more upon its speed than strength for safety. 
Where is the Cassowary found in its native state ? Describe it. 
How does it compare with the ostrich in speed ? What is said of 
its courage ? 
