Bird facts

How Often Do Emus Lay Eggs

When emus lay, how many eggs, and the surprising role of the male.

Emus lay during a defined season rather than year round. In most regions the laying season runs from about October through March, the cooler months. During that window a hen may lay an egg every few days, building a clutch over time. Outside the season the birds rest and do not lay.

Clutch Size and the Male Emu

Over a season a hen may lay roughly 5 to 15 eggs, sometimes more, depending on the bird, her age, and conditions. Here is the surprising part. Once a clutch is laid, the male emu takes over. He sits on the eggs and incubates them himself for the full term, often barely eating or drinking during that time. The female may move on to mate again. It is one of the most devoted displays of fatherhood in the animal world.

What This Means for Buyers

Because emus lay seasonally, fresh eggs are most plentiful from fall through early spring. We plan our shipping around the laying season, so that is the best time to order hatching eggs. If you are buying outside the season, reach out and we will let you know current availability.

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do emus lay eggs?
During the season, a hen may lay every few days.
When is emu laying season?
Roughly October through March in most regions.
How many eggs in a clutch?
About 5 to 15 per season, sometimes more.
Does the male really incubate?
Yes. The male emu sits on the clutch for the full term.
When is the best time to buy hatching eggs?
During the laying season, fall through early spring, when eggs are most plentiful.

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Order fresh emu eggs shipped overnight. Minimum $100, flat $25 shipping.

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