Emus typically have a life span of 25 to 28 years in the wild, and around 35 years in captivity. This made Emma one of the longest living emus in the world.
The emu - who was actually a male - has resided at Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary and Wildlife Centre in Lincolnshire since moving there in 1980. By the time staff realised Emma was a male, the name had already stuck. Arriving from Holland at only 60cm tall, after more than four decades at the sanctuary Emma stood at around 2 metres tall.
Native to Australia, emus are the second largest bird in the world. Though they are flightless, they can run at speeds up to 30mph and can leap up to 2 metres in the air.
Emma was known for his playful and mischievous personality and often cheekily stole from the keeper’s buckets. He loved paddling in muddy puddles and having showers on warm days. Emma was described as a ‘grumpy old man’ with a feisty personality but as he aged his ‘temper really calmed down.’
He was inquisitive and would frequently follow visitors alongside his enclosure, entertaining children and adults alike.
Visitors of the wildlife centre expressed their condolences on Facebook, and the Centre director Chloe Drew said generations of visitors had come to see Emma. He was a cherished member of the sanctuary and is fondly remembered by staff and visitors alike.