An emu is part of the ratite family of birds, which also includes the kiwi, ostrich, cassowary and rhea. They live for about 30 years, laying eggs every three to five days. Most emu farmers handle the processing of products derived from emus, including meat, leather, feathers and eggs. Although emu farming is a labor-intensive process, it can also be quite lucrative. This type of farming requires less space than most other types of animal and agricultural farming.

Pasture Selection

Choose a pasture that provides sufficient drainage to prevent the collection of bacteria and insects. Most emu farms are between five and 10 square acres. The pasture should offer plenty of vegetation for shade and wind protection.

Fencing

Use game fencing or cattle panels to fence in running and breeding areas. You can use chicken wire to build chick runs. Avoid using barbed wire, which can cause injuries and damage the leather or slaughter birds.

Shelter

Build a shelter area for small chicks. A simple pole barn with stacked hay bales is sufficient in most areas of the country. In the spring, the hay bales can be used as mulch. Older emus prefer to sleep outside beneath a tree or beside a hay bale. Also, build a small breeder pen. A breeder pen should be 30 feet by 100 feet or smaller.

Livestock Selection

Purchase your initial livestock. Purchasing eggs is the most economical choice, but the incubation process can be difficult. Buying young chicks gives you the opportunity to learn as the birds grow, and is less expensive than purchasing proven pairs. However, proven pairs can be insured and can begin laying eggs immediately. Although this is the most expensive option, buying proven pairs gives your farm the greatest chance of success.

Feeding Requirements

Purchase feed appropriate for your livestock. Chicks from birth to eight weeks require a 20-percent-protein emu starter. From two to six months, move the emus to a 20-percent grower formula, switching to an 18-percent feed at six months. Growing emus will consume about two pounds of food per day. Breeder emus should be moved to a 16- to 18-percent maintenance feed until they reach two years of age. Switch breeders to a 21-percent breeder feed a month before breeding season begins.

Watering Requirements

Supply emus with fresh water daily in watering troughs. Most emu-farming operations use automatic waterers to ensure a continuous water supply. Adult emus consume about one gallon of water per day.

Dangerous Plants

Remove dangerous trees and plants from emu pastures. These include buckeye trees, cherry trees, black locus, laurels and oak trees. Peach trees, yew trees, hydrangea and chinaberry are also harmful to emus. All of these plants can cause illness or even death.

Source:

Red Oak Farm: Farming Information