Woman Saves Baby Emu Everyone Else Gave Up On

Most people walking past a feed store cage might not think twice about an injured bird, especially one everyone had already given up on. But for one woman, the sight of a struggling baby emu named Ezra sparked an instinct she couldn’t ignore.

Ezra had a slipped tendon that left him unable to walk, and the store owners admitted they were planning to “get rid of him.” Every vet she called said the injury wasn’t fixable and recommended putting him down. But instead of walking away, she took Ezra home, determined to try anyway.

What followed were months of patience, trial and error, and a lot of hope. She carefully re-taped his leg every single day, monitored the swelling, and sat with him for hours, feeding him and offering comfort. Ezra grew up in her bathroom, falling asleep with his head in her hand. There were moments when it seemed like he wouldn’t make it — but then one day, his tendon finally stayed in place.

Watch the video below to see how one woman’s determination gave an emu the second chance no one else believed was possible.

💡 Did You Know?

Emus are the second-largest birds in the world, standing up to six feet tall and weighing as much as 120 pounds. Native to Australia, they’re powerful runners capable of reaching speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, and their strong legs can deliver kicks that rival those of kangaroos. Despite their size and dinosaur-like appearance, emus are generally gentle and curious around people when raised in close contact.

Emus are also unique in their parenting. In the wild, once eggs are laid, the male takes over incubation duties — sitting on the nest for nearly two months without food, water, or leaving to stretch his legs. After hatching, the father continues to protect and guide the chicks for up to 18 months.

Because of their strength and speed, caring for emus isn’t exactly like raising chickens or ducks. They need plenty of space, secure fencing, and a companion if possible, since they’re naturally social birds. That’s why Ezra’s story is especially remarkable: not only did he overcome an injury that should have ended his life, but he also bonded closely with his rescuer, showing just how trusting and affectionate emus can be when given the chance.