Emu
Dromaius novaehollandiae
Natural Habitat
They thrive in open country, including savannahs, grasslands, and sclerophyll forests. They generally avoid dense rainforests and arid deserts.
Where I'm Found
Native to the Australian mainland. They roam throughout most of the continent, from the sclerophyll forests to the savannah woodlands, though they are generally absent from the dense tropical rainforests and arid desert centers.
Source: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
What I Eat
Omnivorous grazers that will eat nearly anything they find.
- Wild: Seeds, fruits, native flowers, insects, and small vertebrates.
- Zoo: Ratite pellets, leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables.
How Long I Live
- Wild: 10 – 20 years
- Captivity: 25 – 35 years
Fun Facts
- Speed Demons: Emus are the second-largest bird in the world and can sprint at speeds up to 30 mph.
- Dual Eyelids: They possess a second, translucent eyelid that protects their eyes from dust while running.
- Dad of the Year: The male emu incubates the eggs alone for 8 weeks without eating or drinking, losing a third of his body weight.
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