AN endangered stuffed large flightless bird is taking centre stage in a taxidermy sale at a leading auction house.

Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn is hosting a Natural History and Taxidermy Sale which will see the sale of a full mount southern cassowary with an estimate of £800-£1,200 plus buyer’s premium.

The bird – found in Indonesia, New Guinea and Eastern Australia – is related to the ostrich and the emu.

Standing at over 130cm in height, it has talons and has been known to kill humans.

The sale will also showcase pieces by internationally renowned taxidermists Van Ingen and Van Ingen, who are known for their naturalistic tiger, leopard, lion and big game trophy mounts.

A leopard shoulder mount – with an estimate of £800-1,200 – features the maker’s trademark open mouth and company stamp to the reverse of the shield.

A full catalogue for the sale on Friday, March 2, will be available at www.tennants.co.uk