Animal profile

Emu

Dromaius novaehollandiae

AvesOpen woodland, savanna and shrubland across the Australian interiorLeast Concern

Field profile

The emu is Australia's largest native bird and the second tallest living bird after the ostrich. It is a nomadic wanderer, following rainfall across the continent in search of seeds, fruit and insects. Males incubate the eggs and raise the chicks alone.

Published field notes

2023-10-19

Emu

Male emus fast for weeks while incubating

After the female lays her clutch and leaves, the male emu sits on the nest for roughly eight weeks. Through most of that period he does not eat, drink or defecate, living off body fat and losing a substantial share of his weight.

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