Injured Emu Rescued After Running Loose In North County

VISTA, CA — An injured emu is receiving care after being rescued in northern San Diego County.

Humane officers responded to reports of an emu running loose Wednesday night in Vista. The bird, which has injuries on its neck and right wing, had wandered into a yard in the 600 block of Vale View Drive, according to the San Diego Humane Society

"Concerned for the bird's safety, our team acted quickly, working together to transport the emu to our Escondido campus," San Diego Humane Society spokesperson Nina Thompson said. "To ensure a safe and comfortable recovery, the emu has been placed in a fully enclosed yard where our medical staff is closely monitoring and treating their wounds."

The emu, which is about 3 years old, was temporarily named Claudius by shelter staff. Claudius will remain on a 72-hour stray hold while staff determine next steps.