Officers in Santa Cruz chase after world’s second-largest bird
California Highway Patrol officers had a highly unusual task this week — catching the second-largest bird in the world.
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California Highway Patrol officers in Santa Cruz received several calls about an emu walking into traffic at Harper Street and 17th Avenue. The big bird had escaped from its owner and traipsed its way in and out of traffic.
“While we often deal with dogs, cats, deer, and occasionally birds, an emu was unexpected!” CHP Santa Cruz said on Facebook.
An emu loose on a highway can pose a deadly risk to drivers if struck by a vehicle, according to the American Emu Association.
The owner quickly arrived to recover their feathered friend, and with the help of the officers, the owner was able to corral the animal and get it back home.
“A big shoutout and thank you to everyone who called in to help us handle this unique situation!” CHP Santa Cruz said.
The emu is only secondto the ostrich as the largest livingbird in the world. Emus grow to be around 6 feet tall and around 120 pounds, according to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. The flightless birds are known for their tiny wings and long necks. The species is native only to Australia.
According to the American Emu Association, a total of 12,580 emus were reported to be living in the United States in 2022.
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