An emu is a large, flightless bird native to Australia, standing about six feet tall with long, powerful legs built for running. Emus are the second-tallest birds in the world (only ostriches are taller), and they can sprint up to 30 miles per hour when they need to escape predators or chase after food.

These curious birds have shaggy brown feathers that look almost like fur, small wings that serve no purpose for flying, and long necks they stretch out when running. Emus eat plants, insects, and seeds, and they travel across the Australian outback in small groups, sometimes covering enormous distances in search of food and water.

Emus make a distinctive booming sound. Despite their size, they're generally peaceful birds, though they can kick powerfully if threatened. Female emus lay large, dark green eggs that the male emu sits on for about eight weeks until they hatch. Baby emus have striped feathers that help camouflage them from predators.

Australia features the emu on its coat of arms alongside the kangaroo, both animals chosen because they can't easily walk backward, symbolizing a nation always moving forward.