Emu
Emu Facts
| Size | 4.9-6.2 ft (150-190 cm) |
| Speed | Up to 31 mph (50 km/h) |
| Weight | 66-100 lb (30-45 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-20 years |
| Food | Plants, seeds, insects |
| Predators | Wild dogs, birds of prey |
| Habitat | Australia |
| Order | Ratites |
| Family | Casuariidae |
| Scientific name | Dromaius novaehollandiae |
| Characteristics | Second largest bird, flightless, with orange-colored bill and feet |
Main Characteristics
The emu is a flightless bird. Like the ostrich, rhea, cassowary, and kiwi, the emu is a so-called ratite. They are able to run very well and fast. Yet, none of them is able to fly, because they are just too tall and heavy – or their wings are too small (like the kiwi’s).
Anatomy and Appearance
Do Emus Have Feathers ... or Hair?
Most birds have feathers which grow from one single root. It is different with the emu. From its “hair roots” grow feathers with two (!) quills. As they are hanging down fairly loosely, it looks as if the emu had a hairy coat instead of feathers. Yet, it does not need to go to the hairdresser.
Emus Have Strong Hind Legs
The emu is the only bird that has calf muscles similar to those of mammals. This enables them to jump more than 6.5 feet (2 meters)! The question is: Do emus also get sore muscles then?
Reproduction
Emus Lay Dark-Green Eggs
Bird’s eggs are not always white or brown. The emu’s eggs are dark-green and as big as the palm of your hand including the fingers.
Nesting
Female emus normally lay between 5 and 15 eggs and then move on to lay some more eggs. What does happen then? Will the eggs remain unprotected? Fortunately, male emus are very caring daddies. As soon as the eggs fall into the nest, they stop eating and drinking to be able to guard and hatch the eggs for 24 hour a day. For eight weeks! By the time the fledglings emerge from the eggs, the father has lost about one third of its weight. After six months the little birds have grown up.
Twin Fledglings
Not only humans occasionally give birth to twins, but other mammals as well. Yet, it is very unusual among birds. The emu is the first bird that has evidently hatched two identical twin fledglings.
Origin
Where Does the Name Come From?
It seems to be obvious to think that the term “emu” might be a word from the language of the Australian natives, the Aborigines. Yet, “emu” is an ancient Arabian word meaning “big bird”.
Fun Facts
Emus Have Countless Fans in Australia
In Australia, more than 600 locations are named after the emu: mountains, lakes, rivers, cities, types of beer, magazines, and many more.
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