Dromaius novaehollandiae

The emu is the second largest bird, being 5 to 6 feet tall, 7 feet long, and weighing up to 120 pounds. It has loose, hairlike, brownish-gray feathers tipped with black. The crown of the head and neck are black, and the head feathers appear to have a center part. The sides of the head and neck are bright blue. “Flight” and tail feathers are indistinguishable from the rest of the plumage. There are only about 6 or 7 wing feathers. The eyes are large and protected by a nictitating membrane. Eyesight is keen and hearing is good. They have 3 toes on each foot for running and are descendents of raptors, able to run up to 30 mph.

The emu has played an important part in aboriginal culture.