The emu, Dromaius novaehollandiae, is the second-largest living bird by height, endemic to Australia. Applying a human concept like “friendliness” to their behavior is inaccurate. An emu’s interaction with humans is driven by natural instincts, including intense curiosity and a powerful drive for self-preservation. Understanding the difference between a curious investigation and a domesticated bond is important when encountering these large animals.
Understanding the Emu’s Natural Temperament
Emus are non-domesticated animals whose disposition in the wild is characterized by wariness and inquisitiveness. They often move in pairs or small groups, but they are not inherently social, sometimes congregating only around common resources like food or water. The emu’s tendency to approach a human or a new object is an act of investigation, not a welcoming gesture, as they are naturally curious about novel stimuli.
This curiosity can be misinterpreted by humans as a gentle or friendly demeanor. In environments where they are habituated to human presence, such as on farms or in reserves, their natural fear response diminishes, making them bolder. This habituation changes their tolerance level but does not constitute true taming or bonding with people. Emus remain instinct-driven, and their large size means even a curious peck or accidental movement can have consequences for a person.
Emus are highly alert, relying on keen eyesight and hearing to detect potential threats at a distance. While they may seem docile most of the time, they are quick to react to perceived danger. Their vocalizations, such as the deep drumming sound produced by females or the grunting noise made by males, are generally forms of long-distance communication but can also serve as warning signals.
Identifying Defensive and Aggressive Behaviors
The primary physical risk an emu poses is its formidable defensive mechanism: a powerful forward or downward kick delivered by its immensely strong legs. An emu can reach running speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour, demonstrating the force these limbs are capable of generating. The power of their legs is enough to tear through wire fencing, showing the substantial danger they present when they feel the need to defend themselves.
Each foot is equipped with three forward-facing toes. The inner toe possesses a sharp, robust claw that can measure up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) in length. This claw is used in combat to inflict serious wounds upon an opponent or predator. When an emu feels cornered, threatened, or is protecting its young, it will readily employ this powerful kicking action.
Aggression is generally rare but is most reliably triggered by a perceived threat or the presence of eggs or chicks. The male emu is solely responsible for incubating the eggs and guarding the young, becoming exceptionally protective and belligerent during this period. Before a physical confrontation, an emu may display warning signs, including standing tall, ruffling its feathers to look larger, or emitting a sharp hissing sound.
Safe Interaction Guidelines
When encountering an emu, maintain a significant distance to respect the animal’s space and prevent it from feeling threatened. If an emu approaches out of curiosity, avoid sudden, jerky movements, which it may interpret as a challenge or an unpredictable threat. Slowly and calmly backing away is the most effective way to disengage from the encounter.
Never feed emus, as this rapidly leads to habituation, causing the birds to lose their natural wariness of people. Emus accustomed to being fed are more likely to approach humans aggressively when denied food. If an emu exhibits warning signs like hissing or feather ruffling, retreat immediately and calmly, keeping a barrier between you and the bird if possible.
Never approach a male emu during the breeding season, especially if it is near a nest or young chicks, as its protective instinct will be at its highest level. If an emu charges, the safest action is to put a solid barrier between yourself and the bird, such as a tree or vehicle, to block the path of its powerful kick. Observing these animals from a distance is the safest and most respectful way to appreciate their presence in the wild.