Emus

Emu at The Briars, Mt Martha

We love emus.  The first time we came across them, I was a bit wary as they are very big and I’ve seen captive emus in wildlife parks pecking quite viciously when people have been feeding them.  However, I was soon reassured by these beautiful creatures.  We do make sure we’re quiet and don’t alarm them and in return they show a lively curiosity and approach us as though to say hello, check what we’re up to, then go on their way again.  They are now a firm favourite of ours and are guaranteed to make us smile with their funny mannerisms.  I always feel so privileged when we come across them on a walk.

Emus, The Briars

These emus were introduced to The Briars, Mt Martha as chicks towards the end of 2011.

Emu Facts

Standing up to 2 metres high, the Emu is Australia’s largest native bird and is common over most of mainland Australia except heavily populated areas, dense forests and arid areas.

They can travel long distances quite quickly in their search for food, feeding on a variety of plants and insects.  Like other birds, they also ingest stones to grind food in their digestive system.   They drink infrequently but in copious amounts when the opportunity arises. They like water and are known to sit in it and even swim.   They are curious birds who follow and watch other animals and humans.

The emu’s plumage varies from region to region to match their environment. It also allows the emus to regulate their body temperature effectively and allows them to be active during the midday heat.

Male and female emus look very similar.  They breed in May and June and are not monogamous. The male does most of the incubation with the eggs hatching after around eight weeks.  The the young are nurtured by their fathers.  They reach full size after around six months but can remain with their family until the next breeding season.

Emus life expectancy is between 10 and 20 years in the wild.  They are predated by dingos, eagles and hawks.

The Emu has good eyesight and hearing. Its legs are among the strongest of any animals, powerful enough to tear down metal wire fences.

Emu, The Briars, Mt Martha