As the sun rises over the vast and rugged landscapes of New South Wales, the tranquility of the bush is often punctuated by the distinctive calls of native wildlife. Among these creatures, the emu, Australia's largest bird, stands tall and proud. However, for dog owners like Ruby Buchanan, a seemingly peaceful walk can quickly turn into a heart-pounding chase.

Ruby's experience on the outskirts of Broken Hill serves as a stark reminder to all dog walkers: emu nesting season is not to be taken lightly. After being recommended a bush track by friends, Ruby and her two kelpies, Holla and Smiley, found themselves in a harrowing situation when they inadvertently stumbled upon a group of territorial emus.

The emus, in full protective mode, 'fully charged' at Ruby and her dogs, leading to a frantic dash back to the safety of her vehicle. With the birds in hot pursuit, it was a race against time to locate her keys and secure her beloved pets. The ordeal, captured on film by ABC Broken Hill's rural reporter Lily McCure, who herself had to scramble onto a car roof for safety, highlights the unpredictability of wildlife encounters.

Emus become aggressive during nesting season and could harm animals passing by their territory. Image Credit: Pexels/Mikayla Meeker

But why do emus attack, especially during nesting season? National Parks Western Area manager Jaymie Norris explains that dogs are perceived as threats, akin to dingoes, which have been predators of emus for millennia. Emus are fiercely protective of their young, and during nesting season, their aggression can escalate to ensure the survival of their chicks.

Attacks on humans are rare, but not unheard of, particularly when accompanied by dogs. The advice from experts is clear: if you encounter an emus, especially with chicks, the best course of action is to slowly walk away. Emus may puff up and charge, but retreating calmly usually signals to them that you are not a threat.

Dog owners traversing the bush should remain vigilant for emus and maintain a safe distance whenever possible. Emu dads, in particular, are renowned for their unwavering commitment to their offspring. After the mating season, it's the male emu who takes on the role of protector and teacher for up to two years, ensuring the chicks' survival against predators.

The recent sightings of emus near Broken Hill are a silver lining to the story. Following years of devastating drought that nearly decimated the local emu population, their return signals a recovery and a resurgence of life in the region. It's a testament to the resilience of nature and the importance of coexisting with our native fauna.

For our members at the Seniors Discount Club, we urge you to share this cautionary tale with fellow dog owners and nature enthusiasts. Emu nesting season is a time to admire these magnificent birds from a distance, ensuring the safety of both our pets and the emus' future generations.

Key Takeaways

• Dog walkers in NSW are being urged to avoid emus during the nesting season due to the birds' increased aggression.
• A woman and an ABC reporter experienced a frightening encounter with emus while walking dogs near Broken Hill.
• National Parks Western Area manager explained that emus may see dogs as predators like dingoes, leading to aggressive behaviour.
• It’s advised to walk away slowly if confronted by emus, especially since emu fathers are highly protective of their chicks after the mother and father split post-breeding.

We'd love to hear from you in the comments below. Have you had any close encounters with wildlife during your outdoor adventures? How did you handle the situation, and what advice would you give to others? Let's keep the conversation going and help each other stay safe while enjoying the beauty of Australia's great outdoors.

 

[MariaG]

I'll have to watch out for Emus now wile I'm walking up to the coffee shop or the local IGA. Always something!!!

 

[Towing]

They are not afraid to charge at anything that goes too close to a nest - including a stationary motor vehicle. There is also another species of a small bird with a very pointy sharp beak besides magpies that is very dangerous.

 

[marni]

They are not afraid to charge at anything that goes too close to a nest - including a stationary motor vehicle. There is also another species of a small bird with a very pointy sharp beak besides magpies that is very dangerous.

My granddaughter was attacked by a butcher bird

 

[Adnamy]

Beware remember the emu wars !!
The emus won.