A Florida man was killed Friday after he fell in his backyard and was killed by his pet cassowary, a large flightless bird with sharp talons.
Marvin Hajos, 75, called 911 after apparently falling and being attacked by the bird outside his Gainesville, Fla. home. Another person called 911 shortly after to report “a medical emergency involving a large bird.” Cassowaries are emu-like birds that can grow over five feet tall.
According to the San Diego Zoo, cassowaries, which can weigh more than 150 pounds, can jump seven feet in the air, run over 30 miles per hour, and are considered “the most dangerous bird in the world.”
“Each 3-toed foot has a dagger-like claw on the inner toe that is up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) long,” the zoo entry reads. “The cassowary can slice open any predator or potential threat with a single swift kick.”
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission classifies the bird as Class II wildlife, meaning the animal poses a significant danger to humans. Other Class II wildlife include alligators, dwarf crocodiles, cloud leopards, howler monkeys, and wolverines. Owners must hold a Class II permit to own the animals.
