Florida state law allows for residents to keep a variety of strange animals as pets, though there are more than a few hoops to jump through, depending on what type of critter you want to take home.
However, what some might not know is that this includes what many consider to be the world’s most dangerous bird: a cassowary.
According to the Library of Congress, these massive avians can grow up to 6 feet tall and weigh around 160 pounds at full size.
In addition, cassowaries have powerful legs capable of jumping up to 7 feet in the air, though they can also be used to deliver strong kicks — made all the more dangerous thanks to their sharp talons that can reach up to 4 inches in length.
While cassowaries are native to Australia and its nearby islands, they can be kept as pets in the Sunshine State for those willing to go through the trouble.
To do so, prospective owners must get a personal pet permit (PPL) from the state, as cassowaries are considered Class II wildlife.
According to the FWC, Class II wildlife consists of animals that “present a real or potential threat to human safety.” Other types of Class II wildlife are as follows:
- Bobcats
- Ocelots
- Servals
- Macaques
- Giraffes
- Okapis
- Tapirs
- Wildebeest
- Water Buffalo
- Howler Monkeys
- Coyotes
- Wolves
- Wolverines
- Honey Badgers
- Binturongs
- Ostriches
A PPL for these types of animals lasts one year at a rate of $140 per year, and many of the animals on that list require evidence of experience and proper living conditions, such as caging and acreage.
However, the FWC warns that anyone wishing to bring their Class II pet out in public should obtain an exhibition permit instead of a PPL.
Regardless, it may not be a great idea for some. Experts assert that cassowary attacks aren’t common, but they can be deadly.
One such incident was reported in 2019 after a 75-year-old Florida man was killed by a cassowary at a farm near Alachua. The FWC listed him as a wildlife dealer, though he reportedly didn’t have a permit to own the animal.
For more information on keeping wildlife as a personal pet, visit the FWC’s website by clicking here.