After a 14 year absence, the world’s most dangerous bird species has returned to Dudley Zoo and Castle.

A ten year-old male Southern Cassowary has arrived from Paignton Zoo and has moved into an exciting newly designed exhibit at the Castle Hill attraction.

The Australian native flightless bird is considered as one of the closest living relatives to dinosaurs, but its long talons, a helmeted head plate and powerful legs make it a force to be reckoned with. Section Leader, Nicola Wright, said:

“The bird department are delighted to welcome back this species after more than a decade. He’s a stunning individual and is settling in well. Now it’s just a case of getting to know his personality and watching him settle into his new habitat.

“We can’t wait for our visitors to come and see our very own dinosaur.”

Other new arrivals at the zoo include a female giant anteater and lots of spring babies including a camel, ring-tailed lemur, spider monkey, gelada and barbary sheep.

Pre-booked tickets are available now at dudleyzoo.org.uk for visitor admission from Monday.