User blog:StaraptorEmpoleon/Australian birds

This was requested by my aunt. Enjoy.

Australia (and Australasia) only has about 1,500 species of birds (fewer than most other continents), but what this continent lacks in numbers is made up for by its birds' exceptional beauty and amazing behaviour !

Ratites
Australia has three species of birds collectively known as "ratites".

Struthionidae

 * Common Ostrich - introduced, only found on ostrich farms, not known to be feral.

Casuariidae

 * Southern Cassowary - a stocky and flightless; this large jungle-dwelling bird, that has black, hair-like feathers, a helmeted head (casque), a bright face and distinctive neck wattles. They are aggressive and must be approached with care; rare in Australia.

Dromaiidae

 * Emu - Australia's national emblem and largest national bird. Flightless, fast-running, stands two metres high. Loose, shaggy plumage.

Gamebirds: Galliformes
Australia has many