Bransby Horses help the RSPCA with an unusual rescue – two emus abandoned in Lincoln.
Earlier this year officers from the RSPCA called on us, as we were near by, to help catch and transport two emus using the specialist equipment we have for equine rescues.
When RSPCA Inspector Andy Bostock and Animal Rescue Officer Karen Nix attended the location in Sheffield Road they were faced with the unfamiliar task of catching the large birds but with the support of the Bransby Horses’ rescue officers they were able to get the job done.
Bransby Horses’ Welfare and Rescue Officer, Nadine Hall, said: “This wasn’t your everyday phone call from the RSPCA but, when they asked for our assistance, we were more than happy to help catch and transport the animals to safety.
“I think it’s safe to say we will be sticking with horses after this though.”
Andrew Bostock, who has been with the RSPCA for 27 years, said: “In all my years as an RSPCA inspector I’ve never had to rescue an emu – let alone two.
“So it was quite a challenging one for us – and we are so grateful to everyone who supported us with this successful rescue and another local charity who have now taken on the two emus.
“Emus are very large, powerful birds and it can be quite dangerous dealing with them, especially as they have a very powerful kick. The specialist team from Bransby Horses were able to help in their confinement and then it was a case of me catching them – which is easier said than done.
“However, I did manage to get them – and it was definitely a rescue I won’t forget. Despite being abandoned both birds were in fine health, the male had an old injury on his leg.
“We are just really pleased to have been able to successfully catch these birds and take them to a place of safety which they can now call home.”
Emus can grow to more than six feet tall and are the second-tallest living bird by height after the ostrich. They can live for up to 20 years and need large outdoor paddocks with a shelter and high fencing to keep them safe – not conditions you can provide in your average home.
The giant birds, which are native to Australia, stay with their parents for up to 18 months in the wild but if hand-reared, emu chicks may imprint on their owner, instead of their parent, and then get distressed when the owner leaves.
Emus need water, dust and mud to bathe in to keep their feathers in good condition. They are also known to be sensitive to noise, easily stressed and require specialist vet care, which is likely to be expensive and not available nearby.
For more information about the challenges of keeping certain pets, please visit the RSPCA’s website.
