Key Information
Emus
| Species | 1 species |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Length | 55 to 65 inches |
| Height | 59 to 75 inches |
| Weight | 40 to 132 lb |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Classification | Aves > Paleognathae > Casuariiformes > Casuaridae |
| Habitat | Savannah and dry woodlands |
Learning Point
- The emu is a fascinating, flightless bird endemic to Australia and the second-tallest bird in the world. Growing nearly six feet tall, emus lack the ability to fly, but possess powerful legs that let them sprint up to 30 miles per hour. They feature unique double-shafted feathers for temperature control and special see-through eyelids to protect against desert dust. In a unique twist of animal parenting, the male emu single-handedly incubates the eggs for eight weeks without eating. As a national icon, the emu represents a truly unique piece of Australia’s wildlife.
Project
- Draw a picture of an emu and an emu egg.
- Overview
- X-Ray
Location
| Locations | Australia |
Fun Facts
- Even though emus have small, hidden wings and cannot fly, they can sprint across the ground at speeds up to 30 miles per hour.
- Emus have a special, see-through second eyelid that slides sideways across their eyes like a visor to keep out blowing dust in windy, dry areas.
- Unlike most birds, an emu feather has two identical shafts growing out of a single base, looking furry near the skin and grass-like at the tip.
- After the mother lays the eggs, the father emu sits on the nest to protect them for eight weeks straight, hardly eating or drinking anything the whole time!
Past Lessons
| 217 | September 9, 2026 | (North America) |