Giant emu (SciiFii)

The giant emu (Feafalanxornis giganteum), also known as the feafalanx, is a species of ratite of the family Casuariidae, most closely related to the common emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, and scrublands across Australia to help boost biodiversity. The giant emu is the largest living member of its family, with males growing to be about 2.1 to 2.3 meters (6 feet 11 inches to 7 feet 5 inches) in height, the females ranging 1.7 to 2.0 meters (5 feet 7 inches to 6 feet 7 inches) tall, and usually weighing from 63 to 145 kilograms (139–320 lb), or as much as one to two adult humans. This makes the giant emu comparable in size to the common ostrich (Struthio camelus). The giant emus are easly recogizable by their brightly coloured face and wattles. The males are especially colourful as the red and blue facial colouring stand out against their black coat. The females feathers are yellowish-white to better camouflage against the tall savannah grass, while the male's colors are used as a form of intimidation for predators. Most predators can recognize the giant emus' appearance and know not to approach them, as their kicks are lethal. The giant emu's diet consists mainly of plant matter, though it also eats invertebrates and small reptiles. It lives in nomadic groups of 5 to 50 birds. When threatened, the giant emu will either hide itself by lying flat against the ground or run away. If cornered, it can attack with a kick of its powerful legs. Mating patterns differ by geographical region, but territorial males fight for a harem of two to seven females. Uniquely among flightless birds, the females do not care for their young; as soon as she has laid her eggs, she will leave the male to care for them as she looks for a new mate. It is not uncommon for single males to care for multiple chicks from different mothers at the same time. The giant emu is farmed around the world, particularly for its feathers, which are decorative and are also used as feather dusters. Its skin is used for leather products and its meat is marketed commercially, with its leanness a common marketing point. The conservation status of the giant emu is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the giant emu's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii