Casuariiformes Casuariiformes The Casuariiformes is an order of large flightless bird that has four surviving members: the three species of cassowary, and the only remaining species of emu. They are divided into either a single family, Casuariidae, or more typically two, with the emu splitting off into its own family, Dromaiidae. All four living members are native to Australia-New Guinea, but some possible extinct taxa occurred in other landmasses. The emus form a distinct family, characterized by legs adapted for running. As with all ratites, there are several contested theories concerning their evolution and relationships. As regards this order, it is
Birds of Australia tail for rapid changes of direction. In consequence, the unrelated birds that fill that role in the Americas and in Australia look and act as though they are close relatives. Australian birds which show convergent evolution with Northern Hemisphere species: Australian birds can be classified into six categories: For comprehensive regional lists, see: For Australia's endemic species, see: Other regional, state and island bird lists: National organizations Australian regional and state organisations Important regional references include: Full-coverage field guides in print are as follows, in rough order of authority: Birds of Australia Australia and its offshore islands and territories have