Ostrich vs Emu
Quick answer
In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Ostrich would most likely come out on top in most encounters, thanks to its more dangerous natural weapons and raw strength. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.
This is a hypothetical, educational comparison based on typical size, strength, and natural weaponry. In the wild these animals rarely meet, and most encounters end without a fight.
Bird
Least Concern
Bird
Least ConcernOstrich vs Emu compared
| Attribute | Ostrich | Emu |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 130 kg | 40 kg |
| Length | 2.8 m | 1.9 m |
| Top speed | 70 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Strength | 55/100 | 45/100 |
| Deadliness | 35/100 | 25/100 |
| Intelligence | 30/100 | 40/100 |
| Lifespan | 45 yr | 20 yr |
Ostrich vs Emu: common questions
Who would win in a fight, a Ostrich or a Emu?
In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Ostrich would most likely come out on top in most encounters, thanks to its more dangerous natural weapons and raw strength. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.
Which is bigger, the Ostrich or the Emu?
The Ostrich is heavier, weighing around 130 kg compared with the other's 40 kg.
Which is faster, the Ostrich or the Emu?
The Ostrich is faster, reaching about 70 km/h versus 50 km/h.
Which lives longer, the Ostrich or the Emu?
The Ostrich typically lives longer, up to around 45 years compared with 20 years.
Sources & references
Conservation status follows the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; size, weight, speed, and lifespan figures are drawn from Animal Diversity Web (University of Michigan Museum of Zoology) and Nowak, Walker’s Mammals of the World (Johns Hopkins University Press), cross-checked against each species’ own guide. Compare full profiles for habitat, diet, and behaviour:
- Ostrich — full guide
IUCN Red List (Least Concern, Struthio camelus)
- Emu — full guide
IUCN Red List (Least Concern, Dromaius novaehollandiae)
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Animal Diversity Web — University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Life-history, morphology, and measurement data for Ostrich and Emu.
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Nowak, R. M. (1999). Walker’s Mammals of the World (6th ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press.
Standard reference for body size, weight, and life-span ranges.
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Global Animal Guide editorial standards
How we research, source, and review wildlife comparisons.
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