Emus are reigning supreme in Broken Hill, New South Wales. Because scarcer food and water sources have led these once exclusively bush birds to move into city yards. During the past few weeks, local residents have spotted emus crossing more populated areas, individually and in packs. This rush has brought a healthy number of adults and juveniles, causing the attention of wildlife experts to be diverted by their unusual aggressive behavior.
General drought conditions in outback Australia are forcing these emus farther afield and into the city. As their natural habitats continue to dry up, these birds are becoming more and more dependent on resources found in urban environments to survive. Stephanie Grieve, from WIRES (Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service), tells us that their organization has been “very, very active. They’ve been chasing down hundreds of citizen reports of emus sighted around the city.
Urban Encounters with Emus
These days, emus are a common sight around Broken Hill. One common location has been in grass ovals, near trees, and around older school buildings. Their mobility makes them a frequent presence on roadways, sometimes looking like they can’t quite decide where they want to walk.
“They don’t know what they’re doing. They’ll go across the road and then change their mind,” said Stephanie Grieve.
As more and more emus start entering urban areas, Tassy residents are advised to stay on guard. When you do see these wild birds, Grieve encourages everyone to be patient.
“We ask if people do see them, please just take your time because they’re getting scared,” Grieve added.
Though they can be seen roaming city streets, parks and beaches, it is important to recognize that emus are wild animals. Wildlife expert Emma McLean is keen to raise awareness around the dangers of feeding emus.
“Generally, feeding wildlife is the worst thing you can do for them,” she stated.
McLean noted that though feeding is often well-intentioned, it can be harmful and create more problems than it solves. These animals can get conditioned to seek out food from humans, making it more likely that they’ll re-invade urban areas.
Concerns Amid Drought Conditions
The record drought currently gripping the area has created a draconian environment for all wildlife, leading to… emus. Grieve said the dry conditions had been the main driver for the birds’ invasion into Broken Hill.
“The drought conditions are already really putting stress on them, so that is why they’re coming into town,” she explained.
Long-term forecasts for the Broken Hill region suggest rainfall will be below average this winter. This new reality would only exacerbate the hazards for local wildlife. The latest on the spot briefing by Caitlin Minney of the Bureau of Meteorology gives a 75 percent chance of precipitation. Look for 25 to 50 mm May-July.
This early dry spell will likely drive more emus to take refuge among city streets. Juvenile emus have very little road sense, making them especially vulnerable. Local residents need to be on the lookout, as endangered emus found in suburban Melbourne could pose serious hazards to motorists.
Addressing Wildlife Interactions
Although the vast majority of residents appreciate and enjoy the presence of these large birds, there have been reports of children throwing rocks at emus. Wildlife rescuers and wildlife parents alike will advise against this kind of act, knowing that it only does further harm to these fragile beings.
“It’s not OK to be cruel to any animal, let alone such a beautiful animal that is coming in, seeking refuge and just trying to do their best to live their life,” Grieve remarked.
Local organizations plan to continue tracking the emus as the story develops. They’ll provide you with expertise on how you can share space with these wild intruders in heartwarming harmony. The community’s understanding and respect for these animals will play a crucial role in ensuring their safety as they navigate an increasingly challenging environment.
