Emus once faced down the Australian army—and won
Popular Science
by Tom HawkingFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In November 1932, Western Australia witnessed an unusual conflict when the Australian army faced off against a flock of emus. Equipped with machine guns and 10,000 bullets, three soldiers were deployed to protect wheat crops from destruction by these large flightless birds. This bizarre encounter was part of a broader struggle involving returning World War I veterans who had been given land under the "soldier settlement" program. Many found themselves struggling economically due to the Great Depression and government policy failures, leaving them vulnerable to emu invasions that ruined their livelihoods.
The emus, migrating through fertile farmland, caused significant damage by breaking fences and destroying crops. Farmers, already strained by economic hardship, demanded action from the federal government. The response was a military operation targeting the emu herds, but the mission proved ineffective. Despite their heavy weaponry, the small contingent of soldiers could not match the sheer numbers or adaptability of the birds.
This story highlights the unintended consequences of post-war policies and the clash between human ambition and natural ecosystems. It serves as a fascinating example of how environmental factors can intersect with economic and political challenges, offering insights into Australia's agricultural history and its relationship with wildlife.
Verticals
sciencetech
Originally published on Popular Science on 2/25/2026