Australia's feral cat population has exploded and is affecting the survival of native bird species. Feral cats are non native species that have descended from domesticated cats. However, feral cats are not the same as a stray pet; they are considered wild animals and live far from urban centres. They are known to eat smaller bird species and can easily outrun emu hatchlings. Emus have adapted to avoid feral cats and other fast moving predators. Using their wings to change direction, emus can make a 180 degree turn without stopping or slowing down. This allows them get away while the predator looses time and speed trying to turn around.
Goannas are the Australian name given to monitor lizards. Goannas vary in size, with the largest species reaching 7 feet. They are carnivorous and catch prey with their sharp teeth and claws. Goannas can unhinge their bottom jaw and swallow prey whole, much like a snake. This allows them to eat large emu eggs as wells as small mammals and other lizards. Goannas have an unlimited appetite and keep eating as long as food is in front of them. A goanna can eat an entire nest of emu eggs and move on to neighboring nests without becoming full.
Dingoes are a species of canine introduced to Australia 3,000 years ago. They can live alone or in small packs of up to 10 members. They are opportunistic hunters who hunt both individually and as a pack. The eat smaller animals including rodents and lizards. Australian dingo populations are so high, they are considered pests. A lone dingo can catch a smaller emu or hatchling, and a pack can capture an adult.
Wedge-tailed Eagles are the largest bird of prey species in Australia. They have a wing span of 8 feet and hunt ground dwelling species. They eat snakes and rabbits but can easily capture small kangaroos and large birds. Wedge-tailed Eagles can fly faster than an emu can run. Emus have adapted by developing a zig zag pattern of running that confuses the wedge-tailed Eagle and makes aiming for prey difficult.