Did You Know...
... that the emu is native to Australia and was imported into the
United States during 1930 through the late 1950's as exotic zoo
stock. Today, the exportation of live birds and eggs is prohibited
from Australia. Exports of processed emu products from Australia,
however, are on the rise as emu begins to gain acceptance worldwide
for its unique qualities.
... that emus are raised throughout the United States and have
adapted to challenging conditions ranging from the frigid winters
of North Dakota to the harsh heat of southern Texas. Emus grow to
be five to six feet tall and may weigh up to 140 pounds when mature.
... that emus normally breed as pairs. The hen can be productive
for as long as 20 years, laying between 20 to 50 eggs in a season.
Laying normally begins at two to three years of age, with the season
extending from October to April in the United States each year.
... that the emu egg varies in size and color. It is usually dark
green, averaging 5 inches long and weighing approximately 600 grams.
Artificial incubation is often conducted at a temperature of approximately
97.5 degrees Fahrenheit and a relative humidity that varies according
to the climate. Average incubation time ranges from 50 to 60 days.
... that emu breeding is currently one of the fastest growing agri-businesses
in the United States. Emus are almost totally useable, yielding
the following products:
A red meat, similar in
taste and appearance to very lean beef, that is lower in cholesterol
but higher in protein than beef. About 25-40 pounds of meat can
be obtained from a mature bird.
� A unique, penetrating oil.
Five to six liters of oil can be obtained from a single bird.
Emu oil has attracted the interest of several national and international
cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies. Research is continuing
in laboratories nationwide as more uses are identified for this
versatile raw product.
� Approximately eight square feet of hide
may be obtained from the adult bird. The tanned body leather is
supple and durable, while the reptilian appearance of the leg
leather provides striking contrast when selected as a fashion
accent. The leather is used in upscale products including boots,
belts, luggage, and accessory items.
� Emu eggs, feathers, and toenails have many decorative applications.
Eggshell artists transform these shells into works
of art such as music boxes, intricate miniature scenes
and even works of heirloom quality. Feathers have been used to
accent unique fashion designs while the toenails may be polished
and used in jewelry pieces.
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Emu Today & Tomorrow
Phone: 580-628-2933
Mailing Address: 11950 W. Highland
Ave.
Blackwell, OK 74631-6511
Fax: 580-628-2011
E-mail: emutoday@aol.com
Emu Today & Tomorrow magazine is owned and published
by Schatz Publishing
Group, a team with over 20 years of combined experience
in researching agricultural opportunities. Our staff is always
interested in your ideas for upcoming articles.
Contact Emu Today with your ideas by email
or by calling 580-628-2933.
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