Description
Emus
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Raising emus offers a variety of benefits, from multiple income streams to low-maintenance husbandry, making them an attractive option for homesteaders and alternative agriculture businesses. They are valued for their meat, oil, and decorative eggs, and are adaptable to many climates
Economic benefits
- Multiple revenue streams: Emus provide many products, meaning you can diversify your income from a single type of livestock.
- Lean, healthy meat: Emu meat is a lean, red meat that is lower in fat and cholesterol than beef but has a similar taste and texture. It is a recommended healthy protein choice by the American Heart Association. A single emu can yield between 20 and 30 pounds of high-quality meat.
- Valuable emu oil: Emu oil, rendered from the bird’s fat, is used in cosmetic and health products for its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. Some studies suggest it has health benefits for skin and hair health, though more research is needed.
- Decorative eggs: Emu eggs have tough, durable, and beautifully colored shells that are prized by crafters for carving and decoration.
- High-quality leather: Emu hide produces soft, durable leather with a unique texture, which is used for accessories like boots, wallets, and bags.
- Art and craft feathers: The long, soft feathers are also a sought-after by-product for use in crafts and jewelry.
- Minimal waste: Nearly every part of the emu can be used for products, including the bones for jewelry and the manure for fertilizer, making it a highly efficient animal to raise.
- Potential for profit: Emu farming can be profitable, especially for smaller operations, due to the high value of their by-products and a growing niche market.
- High return on investment (long-term): Emus have a long lifespan of 30 years or more and remain sexually active for about 25 of those years, offering a long-term production cycle from a single investment.
Husbandry and environmental benefits
- Hardy and adaptable: Native to the hot Australian Outback, emus are naturally adapted to a wide range of climates, from hot and dry to cold, with minimal housing requirements.
- Low-maintenance: They are generally easy to care for and require less space and resources compared to other large livestock, making them suitable for small acreage.
- Pasture-friendly: Emus have soft feet, so they do less damage to pasture than many other types of livestock. They are also excellent foragers, which helps with natural pest control.
- Efficient fertilizer: Their digestive system is very efficient, producing manure that can be used immediately as fertilizer without a long aging process.
- Docile and trainable: While large, emus are generally docile and curious. If raised with proper care, they can form strong bonds with caretakers and can even be trained.
Other uses
- Pest control: Emus are known to ward off predators like bobcats and snakes, helping to protect other smaller livestock like goats or sheep.
- Unique pets: Their curious nature and long lifespan can make emus an engaging and entertaining pet for families with enough land and secure fencing.
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