A bird breeder has been fatally injured by a cassowary on his farm in the US state of Florida. The 75-year-old was probably stumbled and fell down, then he had probably attacked the running bird with his sharp, dagger-like claws, reported local media. The seriously injured man died shortly thereafter in the hospital of Alachua County.

Police are currently investigating the case more closely to rule out another cause of death. "The information so far, however, suggests that this is a tragic accident," said a police officer of the "Gainesville Sun". The cassowary initially stayed on the bird farm.

Cassuars are flightless birds that actually live in New Guinea and parts of Australia. They can be up to 1.70 meters tall and weigh 60 kilograms. Their feathers are black, head and neck blue. Particularly striking are her huge feet and claws. They also owe their reputation as the most dangerous bird in the world.

OceanPhoto / imago images

Cassowary grows up to 1.70 meters tall and weighs 60 kilograms

"A cassowary can slash enemies with a single quick kick," reads an information site on the San Diego Zoo. With their powerful legs, the birds reach speeds around 50 kilometers per hour, even through the dense bush. They feed exclusively on fruits. Deadly attacks on humans are hardly documented so far.

Exotic birds as collectibles

One thing is certain, apart from the current case, only one event in Australia in 1926. A casuar had then attacked and killed a teenager. The boy had tried to kill the bird with clubs when he appeared on the family property. Also from New Guinea there are stories of deaths. But they are not confirmed.

Wilson Ring / AP / dpa

Archive image: In the USA, cassowaries are wanted among collectors

The indigenous inhabitants of New Guinea hunt cassowaries. The meat of the birds is considered a delicacy. In the US, according to the authorities, the exotic birds are mainly used as collectibles.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has classified cassowaries as potentially dangerous to humans, but they may be held with a permit. For this, the owner has to have a lot of experience in dealing with the animals and to fulfill the requirements of the enclosure.