Runaway emu will be found new Hong Kong home if owner not identified, government says

Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department says emu is under observation at one of its animal management centres after being captured at the weekend

Owner of private farm near where bird was spotted in Tin Shui Wai says none of its animals have gone missing

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The emu was spotted running along roads in the New Territories. Photo: Facebook/Bosco Chu

Published: 7:30am, 28 May 2024Updated: 10:12am, 28 May 2024

Wildlife officials will arrange adoption for a runaway emu captured over the weekend if its owner cannot be identified, the Hong Kong government has said.

The Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department revealed the plan on Monday evening after a farm near where the bird was spotted in Tin Shui Wai said none of its animals had gone missing.

The department also said the emu was under observation at one of its animal management centres.

“If eventually it is unclaimed the department will try to arrange for its transfer to an animal welfare organisation for adoption if the animal is in good health and fit for adoption as assessed by the department’s veterinary officers,” a spokesman said.

NT Green Garden farm has not lost any animals, its owner says. Photo: Sam Tsang

The emu – a large, flightless bird native to Australia – drew attention after being spotted running along roads and entering a housing estate on Saturday.