Community & Business
15 October, 2024
Cassowary caution needed
DRIVERS have been warned about an adult cassowary who is risking its life and bringing traffic to a standstill along a narrow, winding stretch of road at the top of Gillies Range.
The cassowary has been sighted repeatedly meandering in and out of traffic along a 5km stretch of the road, sparking a warning to motorists to keep their windows up, not discard any food and drive with caution near the top of the range.
“Wildlife officers have reviewed videos taken by members of the public and believe this bird has been previously fed by people from cars,” Department of Environment manager northern wildlife operations Dave Woods said.
“It is not wary of vehicles, and it can be seen approaching vehicles as they slow down or stop, hoping to be fed. If people stop offering the cassowary food, it will return to the rainforest and go back to foraging for food without any further human intervention.
“We have conducted several site inspections and observed the cassowary’s behaviour, but the section of road presents operational challenges.
“Due to the narrow road, high volume of traffic and steep landscape, it would be dangerous and difficult for wildlife officers to conduct behavioural modification on the animal.
“We are currently working with the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Queensland Police Service about management options to address the risk to road users and the cassowary.”
