Emu

INTRODUCTION

The Emu is the second largest bird by height, after its ratite relative, the ostrich and it is endemic to Australia where it is the largest native bird. It prefers life in woodlands, scrublands, grasslands and forests. Emus can travel great distances, and when necessary can sprint at 50 km/h (31 mph). The plumage of the emu varies in colour due to environmental factors, giving the bird a natural camouflage. Feathers of emus in more arid areas with red soils have a rufous tint while birds residing in damp conditions are generally darker in hue

GALLERY

FAST FACTS

Scientific Name:

Dromaius novaehollandiae

Status:

Least concern

Size:

Up to 190 cm

Weight:

Up to 40 Kg

Life Span in Wild:

10 years

Habitat:

Desert, savannah, forest

Diet:

Omnivore

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ME

What Do I Eat?

Mammals, amphibians, reptiles, insects, wood, bark, seeds, grains fruit

Where Do I Live?

Australia

Do I Have Any Predators?

Dingoes, wedge-tailed eagles

How Do I Live?

Diurnal, terrestrial

Why Am I Endangered?

No major threats