Emus

Emus at Hobart Zoo and Aquarium Zoo

Towering, curious, and quick on their feet—emus are Australia’s largest bird and the second-largest bird in the world. Although they can’t fly, they make up for it with powerful legs and a top speed of over 50 km/h!

In the wild

In the wild, emus are found across much of Australia, from forests and grasslands to remote deserts. They travel long distances in search of food and water and are known for their calm curiosity and strong survival instincts.

At Hobart Zoo and Aquarium Zoo, our emus live in a spacious paddock they share with kangaroos and wallabies—creating a relaxed, open-range experience for guests to enjoy up close.

How We Keep Our Emus Thriving

Natural Foraging

Emus enjoy a varied diet of grains, greens, fruit, and native plants, scattered throughout their habitat to support natural foraging behaviours.
Plenty of Space

Their exhibit offers room to roam, stretch, and dust bathe, with soft ground and open shade—just like their natural environment.
Guest Encounters

Emus are part of our hand-feeding experiences, allowing visitors to safely and respectfully interact with these fascinating birds.

🐾 Say hello to Australia’s feathered giants at Hobart Zoo and Aquarium Zoo. With their bold eyes and easy-going personalities, emus are a true crowd favourite!