Emus are farmed primarily for oil, leather, and meat, and their welfare needs as large, curious birds are often inadequately met.
Emus are intelligent birds with a need for exploration and space. Confined systems cause frustration, feather pecking, and stereotypic pacing. Their powerful legs mean improper handling leads to injury to both birds and handlers. Stress during transport and slaughter is significant for these large, reactive birds. Higher welfare standards are rarely enforced in the emu farming industry.