Cassowary Dies After Swallowing Fishing Hook in North Queensland

‘Discarded hooks fishing line are well-documented threats to sea birds and can also harm species like cassowaries,’ said ranger Stephen Clough.

An X-ray image showing the insides of a fishing hook lodged inside the afflicted cassowary. Courtesy of the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation

Anglers are being reminded to correctly dispose of fishing equipment following the tragic death of a cassowary near Innisfail in North Queensland.

The state’s Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation said a juvenile cassowary was found on July 27 with a length of fishing line hanging from its beak.