An abandoned cassowary ‘stripey’ chick has been successfully reunited with its father after being found with a large gash across its neck

An abandoned cassowary “stripey” chick has been successfully reunited with its father south of Cairns after being found with a large gash across its neck.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service would like to thank the property owners for their prompt action, and said the phone call to notify them ensured the stripey had a second chance. Picture: Supplied.

A baby cassowary found injured on a property south of Cairns has been successfully reunited with its father, after it received emergency treatment from wildlife officers and a resident veterinarian.

The abandoned “stripey” was found on September 3 by a resident on their Bingil Bay property, who noticed the baby chick motionless and with a large gash across its neck.

Department of Environment, Science and Innovation wildlife officer Ariella Woods responded to the call and transported the animal to Tully Tropical Vets for treatment.

The baby cassowary chick was found abandoned with a large gash around its neck on a Bingil Bay property. Picture: Supplied.

“We were up against the clock, it was crucial to get the chick back to Bingil Bay as quickly as possible so it could be reunited with its father,” she said.

“There was a real risk that the father would reject the stripey due to the length of time they had been apart.”

Antibiotics were administered, and after assessing the wound to be superficial along with the cassowary chick being in “good condition”, it was taken back promptly to the Bingil Bay property the following day.

Wildlife officer Hayley Cook said it was important the release of the chick had to coincide with the father’s regular patterns of activity.

Cassowaries can inflict serious injuries to people and pets by kicking out with their large, clawed feet. DESI warn the public to never approach cassowaries. Picture: Supplied.

With the chick placed in a pet carrier close to the rainforests edge, wildlife officers said the baby chick began to call out to attract it’s father to the area.

“It began to call out, attracting its father and another chick, and we watched the vocalisation and behaviour confirmed he recognised the chick before opening the pet carrier,” Ms Cook said.

Once the cage door was opened, the chick ran to its father and sibling and the three were seen returning to the rainforest.

“We were absolutely thrilled by the heartwarming reunion, and this successful operation highlights the important collaboration we share with the community and the veterinary professionals,” Ms Cook said.

Anyone who spots an injured, sick or orphaned cassowaries is encouraged to call DESI on 1300 130 372.

Originally published as An abandoned cassowary ‘stripey’ chick has been successfully reunited with its father after being found with a large gash across its neck