Emus are a large flightless bird native to Australia. They are known for their powerful legs, which they use to run at speeds of up to 50 km/h or about 31mph. Emus are also known for their curious and intelligent personalities, which make them popular as pets and farm animals. If you are considering raising emus, there are a few things you should know:
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Emus require a large, fenced-in area to roam in. They should have at least 1/2 acre of space per bird. Ideally, the fencing should be at least 6' tall, but we have found that 4' fencing with a 5' high-tension wire will usually be sufficient.
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Emus need a diet that is high in protein, as they are growing birds. You can feed them a commercial emu feed or supplement their diet with grains, vegetables, and fruits. We use a commercial 20% deer feed ration to meet their requirements.
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Emus need access to clean water at all times. They should have a large water trough or another source of water that is large enough for them to fully dip their beaks into and then extend their necks upright to drink water.
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Emus are social animals and do well in pairs or small groups. A group of emu is called a mob. We do not recommend a single emu, ever.
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Emu should be introduced to each other slowly to prevent fighting. A separation area should be established and available at all times to separate individuals who are prone to fighting or being picked on by other members of the mob.
Raising emus can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to do your research and be prepared to commit the time and resources necessary to properly care for these fascinating birds.
For more in-depth information, visit our YouTube Channel and watch our Emus 101 Series here
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