‘PREHISTORIC LOVE BIRDS’: MEET PAIGNTON ZOO’S LIVING DINOSAURS

Love is in the air at Paignton Zoo as two enormous southern cassowaries were successfully introduced on Tuesday 20 May in what could be the start of a prehistoric romance.

The birds — Madrid, a 16-year-old male, and Twiggy, an 11-year-old female, have finally met face-to-face after years of living as next-door neighbours in adjacent enclosures, potentially beginning a breeding relationship that could produce cassowary chicks.

These impressive birds, which stand at a towering two metres tall and can sprint at over thirty miles per hour, feature dagger-like claws and brilliant blue necks. With their distinctive helmet-like casques, cassowaries are often described as the “world’s most dangerous birds,” making them a must-see attraction, particularly for dinosaur enthusiasts.

Lisa Ward, Birds Team Leader at Paignton Zoo, commented:

“Many of our young visitors don’t realize that birds like cassowaries are the direct descendants of dinosaurs. When children see their impressive stature and prehistoric features, they’re often awestruck.”

The introduction took place early on Tuesday morning. The zoo’s bird keeping team watched eagerly as the newly installed gate connecting their enclosures was opened for the first time.

Initially, the ‘prehistoric lovebirds’ showed little reaction to their new opportunity. After some gentle coaxing from Lisa using grapes, Twiggy ventured through the gate into Madrid’s territory and immediately began exploring her new surroundings. Madrid, clearly smitten, followed her around “like a lovesick puppy” for about an hour as she investigated every corner of his enclosure.

Lisa explained:

“Their long-standing relationship as neighbours has clearly created a strong comfort level between them. That’s potentially why we didn’t see any of the aggression that can sometimes occur with new introductions.”

The chaperoning period didn’t last long before nature took its course, with Madrid attempting to mate with Twiggy. Keepers have observed several additional mating attempts throughout the day, though they’re not yet certain how successful these efforts have been.

Lisa added:

“That’s perfectly normal. They’ll need some time to figure things out together, but all the signs so far are incredibly positive. We’re cautiously optimistic that we might hear the patter of tiny talons in the future!”

If breeding proves successful, cassowary chicks would represent another significant achievement for the zoo. Madrid has been a resident at Paignton Zoo since August 2009, while Twiggy arrived in November 2017. Both birds have become firm favourites with regular visitors, and this new chapter in their story promises to attract even more dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.

Visitors are encouraged to come and witness this prehistoric pairing starting from 20 May.