Rodney Stevens

Endangered Coastal Emus are on the move around the Clarence Valley and with recent sightings at Palmers Island and Shark Creek motorists are urged to remain vigilant and slow down if you spot any of the birds.

Last April a Coastal Emu spent weeks feeding around soybean crops in paddocks on Palmers Island, opposite Wynyabbie House, delighting passing motorists.

Last week a group of nine Coastal Emus were photographed together in a paddock on the southern side of Yamba Road, between Middle Road and South Bank Road, at Palmers Island.

Clarence Valley Council were informed of the presence of the endangered emus and have put electronic signs in place to warn drivers passing by the area.

Earlier this month there were reports of four Coastal Emus spotted near the Pacific Highway at Shark Creek, a popular area of habitat for the species.

With less than 50 Coastal Emus recorded in the 2023 count, it is vital that the community heed the warnings and slowdown in areas occupied by the Emus to prevent any birds being killed by vehicle strikes.

Genetically different to other Australian Emus, Coastal Emus are only found in the area from Red Rock to Evans Head, and their loss would have a serious impact on the environment because they eat and spread fruits and seeds across large areas.