Emu named Eric stalks pensioner in Queensland suburb

The problem

• Since early 2025, pensioner Mal Richards of Bluewater, a suburb on Townsville’s outskirts, has reported that an emu he calls Eric follows him around his yard and driveway every morning before 6 a.m.
• Richards says the bird blocks his path, honks loudly, and leaves droppings on his driveway, making routine chores feel unsafe.

Reported incidents (as told to ABC News)

• Daily harassment – Richards claims the emu “stands around honking all day” and appears whenever he turns to do a task.
• Physical risk – He worries about the emu’s powerful kick and large feet, noting, “I’m a pensioner, right?”
• Community sightings – The local Bluewater Facebook page is filled with photos and warnings for drivers, and a resident reported schoolchildren having to climb a fence to avoid the bird.

Official response

• The Townsville City Council and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries have been contacted, but officials say the animal “has not been seen to exhibit any concerning behaviour.”
• A spokesperson for the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation advised residents to give the emu space, avoid feeding it, and not provide easy access to food.
• Local council regulations allow an emu to be kept on a property larger than 2,000 m² if an adequate enclosure is provided; no law currently forces removal.

Wildlife expert view

• Jackie Hasling, a wildlife educator, says Eric is likely a former pet and therefore less aggressive than wild emus. She recommends:
• Back away slowly if the bird approaches.
• Hold a rake or stick to appear taller.
• Use a tree or other barrier between you and the bird.
• Accept that droppings are an inevitable nuisance.

Practical steps for residents

• Secure fencing – Ensure any gaps are closed; emus can squeeze through surprisingly small openings.
• No feeding – Removing food sources reduces the bird’s incentive to linger.
• Report to wildlife officers – If the emu shows truly threatening behaviour, document the incident (date, time, photos) and contact the state wildlife rangers.
• Neighbourly cooperation – Share sightings on community pages to help authorities gauge the bird’s range.

*The situation remains unresolved; Richards continues to encounter Eric daily, and no agency has taken formal action to relocate the bird.*