An amorous emu likely looking for a hook up found himself at the centre of an intense takedown by Auckland Council Animal Management Officers last week.
“I never thought I’d have to Google how to catch an emu,” Animal Management Officer (AMO) Rebecca Foster laughed.
But that’s exactly what Rebecca found herself doing last week after Eric the emu escaped from his Pukeoware Road paddock in Waiuku.
Eric’s owner Dave Goodley said the 16-year-old pet had likely forced his way through a fence on Monday – running off in search of company.
“He gets very friendly, especially around mating season. Even I’ve got to keep looking over my shoulder when he’s following me around the paddock,” Dave laughed.
Dave said during the 24 hours Eric was on the run, there were numerous sightings of him by locals.
“Emus have very small brains and are not that intelligent, but they are very fast.”
After two unsuccessful captures by a neighbour and member of the public on Monday, Eric was finally cornered on Tuesday by Rebecca and two fellow officers.
“I had never caught an emu before, so I started Googling how to do it,” Rebecca said.
With sharp talons and forceful kick, plenty of care had to be taken.
“Their hearts can also give out if they get too stressed.”
After being enticed with food and safely onboard, the trio took the bird to the council’s Henderson Animal Shelter where the bachelor was happily reunited with Dave a couple of days later.
“It was a bit of a drive from Henderson back to Waiuku but he’s happy as.”
Dave said Eric is back strutting his stuff around the paddock – of which he shares with 20 sheep.
“He loves roaming around the paddock showing off he’s the tallest thing in there.”
Eric's owner Dave Goodley spoke to The AM Show on Wednesday - see the video here on the Newshub website.
