Origin and History
It is believed that the emu is a survivor of prehistoric times and dating back some 80 million years, roamed the outback of Australia. The Aborigines tribes relied upon the emu for their existence. The emu provided them with food, clothing, shelter, and spiritual sustenance. They were originally imported to the United States as breeding stock for American zoos. They have grown in popularity very quickly as an alternative livestock for farmers.
Description
Physical
Largest bird inhabiting Australia Flightless; wings are only 1/10th the length of its body. Brown in color; after molting, new feathers may appear nearly black, fading to pale brown with age. Bases of feathers are white. Each feather has two shafts, with barbs so widely spaced that they do not interlock to form firm vane as in most birds; they form a loose, hair-like body covering. Feathers growing near base of spine differ from those covering rest of bird; they have longer barbs and are set wide apart, giving appearance of a mop-like tail. Skin on head and neck often free of feathers and has a bluish tinge. They have 3 toes; the underside of each toe is flattened with a broad pad.
