Emu FAQs

What is an emu?   An emu is a large flightless bird that is a member of the ratite family. They are cousins to the ostrich, rhea, and cassowary. They grow to over 5 feet tall and weigh over 100 pounds. They have long powerful legs and vestigial wings that are only about 4 inches long and can run in excess of 30 miles an hour. For defense, they jump and kick with their feet, which have three sharp claws on each foot. They have a rather shy and curious disposition, and are attracted by shiny objects. They are also very territorial, particularly during the breeding season. They can live to be over 20 years old and are generally monogamous. The females lay large dark green eggs that are about 600 grams (over a pound) and can lay up to 40 in a year, but a usual clutch is about 14. The males sit on the eggs instead of the females and it takes about 52 days for the eggs to hatch.

What do they eat?   They are omnivores who eat mostly grains, grass, and insects. We feed our emus a special grain mix formulated just for emus.

Aren't they mean?  No they are shy and curious. They will defend themselves if they feel threatened, but will usually run away. They are agitated by loud or strange sounds.

Where do they come from?  They are native to Australia where they are held in high regard by the aborigines, who have valued the meat and healing properties of the oil for generations.

Where does the oil come from?  The oil comes from the fat of the bird. A layer of fat surrounds the body of the bird and there are approximately 20 pounds of fat per bird which is rendered and refined to make the pure emu oil.

What are the benefits of emu oil?  Emu oil has a unique combination of essential and non-essential fatty acids that give it special therapeutic properties. Emu oil is an excellent skin moisturizer, and may be used to sooth sore muscles and troubled skin. It is transdermal, bacteriostatic, won't clog pores, and is used to soothe sore joints and muscles.