Musing on Emus

The West is constantly updating itself--what else should a frontier do? And the latest beady eyes on the Western landscape belong to an unlikely critter--a prehistoric bird cousin to the ostrich that started roaming Australia's Outback about 80 million years ago. The native Aborigines depended on the emu for food, clothing, and shelter, much like Plains Indians depended on the bison. Today, the emu ranchers of Western America are working to create an industry based on this interesting creature.

Consider the emu's advantages: Very little land is required for emu ranching, on average less than 15 acres; emus are adaptable and have gentle dispositions; emus are environmentally friendly and can actually restore damaged land; and they are prolific things, producing up to 20 chicks per year.

Now that you have them, what do you do with them? How about an emu burger, or sausage, or even emu jerky? The meat is lean, low in calories and cholesterol, and has a taste similar to beef. The natural oil rendered from the emu turns out to be moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and soothing--it makes an excellent massage cream and works well on muscle aches, dry skin, and burns. Then there's emu leather, which has been used in boots, handbags, and other fashion items. Even the enormous emu egg, with its dark green shell similar to an avocado, is being used in crafts and jewelry. These products are still in their infancy, yet all show promise.

All has not been rosy across the land, however. After emus were introduced, their prices soared, only to suffer a fall. It takes time to develop an industry, and tastes and habits change slowly.

Meanwhile, a core of persistent ranchers remain convinced that the emu's virtues will cause it to prevail and that public enthusiasm for the products is growing. Groups like the Texas Emu Association work to raise consciousness and disseminate information about the Big Bird, and the American Emu Association just held a successful convention in San Antonio, Texas, where new products and recipes, and a new spirit were seen.

It may be disconcerting to see a bunch of big bushy birds hanging out in a field where cattle would look more at home. But that is what the Wild West is all about--pushing the envelope and trying something different.

For information: American Emu Association, P.O. Box 8174, Dallas, Texas 75205; Texas Emu Association, P.O. Box 220, Prairie Hill, Texas 76678; (817) 789-2400.

-Charlotte Berney

Copyright ©1998 Cowboys & Indians

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