Emu farming is a niche industry producing oil, leather, and meat. Understanding their behavioral needs and welfare challenges is important for the responsible expansion of this sector.
Emu welfare in farming contexts suffers when the extraordinary physical and behavioral needs of these large ratites are not accommodated. Emu require substantial space — small pens cause stereotypic pacing and aggression. Their inquisitive pecking behavior means enclosures must be free of hazards and provide appropriate enrichment objects to redirect foraging activity. Outdoor access to varied terrain, dust bathing areas, and shelter from extreme weather are important welfare provisions. The emu farming industry lacks the regulatory oversight that governs mainstream poultry, making voluntary welfare commitments by individual producers especially important.