Authorities are urging people to avoid unlawfully feeding wildlife after a close encounter with a cassowary.
Security video from south Mission Beach on May 09 shows a habituated male cassowary and his chick approaching a home in the hopes of being fed.
The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation is urging people in cassowary habitat to stop feeding them.
Wildlife Ranger Jeff Lewis said feeding cassowaries changes their behaviour, creating significant risks for people and our iconic endangered birds.
"This incident is one of several cassowary interactions in the area which are linked to unlawful feeding," Mr Lewis said.
"Thankfully the mother and child were able to get inside to safety, but it's an important reminder to not interfere with wildlife.
"In April, a man in his seventies was kicked in the leg by a cassowary which approached him expecting food. He was treated for a cut to his leg and was lucky the injuries weren't worse.
"These incidents are stark examples of the dangers of feeding cassowaries.
"Local wildlife rangers have been warning people of the risks, installing signage and providing education, but the unlawful feeding persists.
"When cassowaries associate humans with food, they can become impatient and aggressive, particularly when accompanied by chicks.
"We encourage anyone with information in relation to unlawful feeding to report it to the Department."
If you encounter a cassowary displaying concerning behaviour or see one injured, contact 1300 130 372. For general sightings.
Cassowaries can inflict serious injuries to people and pets by kicking out with their large, clawed feet. People are asked to Be cass-o-wary at all times in the Wet Tropics.
- Never approach cassowaries.
- Never approach chicks – male cassowaries will defend them.
- Never feed cassowaries – it is illegal, dangerous and has caused cassowary deaths.
- Always discard food scraps in closed bins and ensure compost bins have secure lids.
- Slow down when driving in cassowary habitat.
- Never stop your vehicle to look at cassowaries on the road.
- Keep dogs behind fences or on a leash.
