Species Feature: Emu

The Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) is Australia's largest bird and one of the most iconic symbols of the country's unique wildlife. Flightless and towering in stature, this fascinating species roams the open landscapes of Australia, from grasslands and savannahs to eucalyptus forests and semi-arid scrublands. They are found across most of the continent, except for most islands including Tasmania.

Size and appearance

Emus can reach a height of up to 2 meters (6.5 feet), with males and females similar in size. Weighing between 30 to 45 kilograms, they are covered in soft, shaggy plumage that ranges in shades of brown to grey-brown, providing excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. They often have a patch of bare, blueish skin behind their eyes running down their neck. Their long legs and three-toed feet allow them to run at speeds of up to 50 km/h when escaping predators.

Emu diet

Omnivorous by nature, Emus feed on a variety of seeds, flowers, fruits, shoots from native plants, and insects. Their diet adapts to seasonal availability, and they are known to travel long distances to find food and water. In Western Australia, Emus are known to migrate seasonally - south in search of winter rains, and north in search of tropical summer rains. These birds also play a vital role in seed dispersal, contributing to the health of ecosystems.

Breeding

Emus have a unique breeding system where males take on the primary role of incubating eggs and raising chicks. During the breeding season (May–September), males will build a nest on the ground, ready for the larger and more dominant females to lay clutches of up to 15 large blue eggs. The female will leave the male to incubate the eggs for about up to nine weeks, often without eating or drinking much. Within a few days of hatching, chicks are active and begin feeding themselves. During the first 6 months, the male will become more aggressive and protective over his young. They will stay with the male for the next 12-18 months, learning critical survival skills, before becoming completely independent. 

Where to see Emus in the wild

For a chance to encounter Emus in their natural habitat, try one of these regions:

Eyre Peninsula, South Australia

With its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, the Eyre Peninsula is an Emu haven. Australian Coastal Safaris provides multi-day tours that explore the region's key Emu habitats, where sightings of these iconic birds are a regular highlight.

Mungo National Park, New South Wales

Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours offers guided journeys through the breathtaking landscapes of Mungo National Park, located in south-west New South Wales. This area's open plains and semi-arid conditions provide an ideal setting for spotting Emus while uncovering the park's rich Indigenous heritage and ancient geological wonders.

Riverland, South Australia

The Riverland region, nestled along the Murray River, is a prime habitat for Emus. Here, they thrive in both arid plains and lush riverine environments. Guided by Murray River Trails, visitors can immerse themselves in this vibrant ecosystem and observe Emus alongside other unique native wildlife.

Cairns, Queensland

While Cairns' Daintree Rainforest and Atherton Tablelands aren't typical Emu habitats, FNQ Nature Tours ventures inland to the savannah woodlands. This unique ecosystem offers excellent opportunities to encounter Emus in their natural surroundings.

Sydney (Southern Highlands), New South Wales

Located just 90 minutes from Sydney, the Southern Highlands is a picturesque region where rolling hills and open woodlands create ideal habitats for Emus. With Sydney Bespoke Tours, you can embark on personalized journeys to explore this serene countryside, discovering the local flora, fauna, and the occasional sighting of these majestic flightless birds in their natural environment.