Park rangers from the National Service of Conservation Areas (Sinac) rescued an emu bird that was wandering through a palm plantation area in Golfito Canton in Puntarenas Province.

According to the police report, park rangers were alerted about "a strange big bird that was walking under the intense sun on an empty property that was used for the plantation of African palm."

When responding to the call, the rangers found the big native bird of Australia that had already walked to the Coto River bend and was about to walk along National Route 14. 

The animal was being protected by some residents who tried to avoid the "never seen before" bird from getting scared and trying to escape by running down the road and being run over or falling into the river and drowning, said the rangers.

Sinac rangers with the help of local police officers and community volunteers managed to catch the unfamiliar bird and bring it to safety. The bird was transferred to a wild animal refuge located in Golfito where vets evaluated its physical condition. The emu will remain in the shelter.

Authorities began an investigation to find the bird owner and then open a case for possession of wild animals in captivity.

An emu bird is a large flightless bird native to Australia. It is the second-largest bird in the world, surpassed only by the ostrich.

Emus have a distinctive appearance with a long neck, small head, and a beak. They stand tall, reaching an average height of about 5 to 6.5 feet and can weigh up to 100 pounds. They have long, powerful legs with three toes on each foot, and their feathers are usually brownish-black in color.

They are known for their curious and inquisitive nature. They are social birds that often gather in small groups called mobs and capable runners that can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.

 

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