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Emu
Dromaius novaehollandiae
-38.4728, 145.235
Field Notes
Description:
The emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) is the largest bird native to Australia. The soft-feathered, brown, flightless birds reach up to 2 metres (6.6 ft) in height. They have long thin necks and legs.
These birds had a very large area, along with kangaroos and wallabys, in which to live and one could walk among them freely.
Habitat:
Walking around freely in the Phillip Island Wildlife Park, a vast area with a several ponds, an area of wetlands, fields and a small melaleuca forest.
Notes:
Emus can travel great distances at a fast, economical trot and, if necessary, can sprint at 50 km/h (31 mph) Their long legs allow them to take strides of up to 275 centimetres (9.02 ft) according to Wikipedia.
The emu was an important source of meat to Aboriginal Australians in the areas to which it was endemic. Emu fat was used as bush medicine, and was rubbed on the skin. It also served as a valuable lubricant. It was mixed with ochre to make the traditional paint for ceremonial body adornment, as well as to oil wooden tools and utensils such as the coolamon.
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