Kagus evolved in isolation on the island of New Caledonia in the South Pacific, where there were no natural predators. When Europeans arrived, these flightless birds became easy prey for the dogs, cats and rats that came with them. Their shaggy wings lack the muscle for flight, however they can be used for gliding short distances and, along with an impressive crest on the back of the head, for display. Kagus are carnivorous birds living on a diet of worms, snails and small lizards foraged from the forest floor. |
