Details
Dromaius novaehollandiae
The emu is a large flightless bird native to Australia. It strides through grassland and open woodland on long legs, eating both plant material and small animals.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses Australasian grassland, open woodland, semi-arid country, and farmland edges. Birds range widely in search of water and seasonal food.
Length is 150-190 cm and weight 18-55 kg. It has a long neck and legs, coarse brown plumage, and tiny wings; it cannot fly but runs strongly.
Diurnal birds may be solitary or form loose groups depending on conditions. They rest in heat and forage while walking during cooler periods.
An omnivore, it eats seeds, fruit, shoots, flowers, and insects. Swallowed stones help grind tough plant material in the gizzard.
The male incubates eggs in a ground nest and guards the chicks after hatching. Females may lay for more than one male in a season.
It is listed as Least Concern. Although adapted to dry country, fences, roads, and farm management can influence movement and conflict with people.
