Bueno, a two-year-old emu has moved to Writtle University College

The male emu previously lived with his parents at Longleat Safari Park, but this month he was moved to Writtle University College’s welfare-led animal facilities. 

Bueno is now settling into his new home and has already gained new friends, adult emus Sid and Diego. 

WUC’s animal collections development manager, Hamish Morrin, said: "There comes a time when every bird needs to leave the nest! 

“By coming to us, Bueno gets to live in a group, and it is possible for his parents to breed again.  

Bueno is now settling into his new home, WUC (Image: WUC)

“Emus are not very social, but they are more comfortable with a small group of other emus around.  

“Working with such unique animals is a great opportunity for our students, and our experienced team will make sure Bueno has the best welfare." 

Bueno is enjoying a spacious compound next to Sid and Diego’s enclosure, which allows the three to get to know each other before they share a permanent home.   

The two older emus have lived at Writtle since 2015, when they moved from Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park in Suffolk. 

Like all animals at WUC, Bueno, Sid and Diego will live in a specially-designated enclosure. Species-appropriate environmental enrichment is offered throughout the year to help create a stimulating environment and encourage natural behaviour.  

Meet Bueno, a 2-year-old emu who moved into college and already found new friends, WUC (Image: WUC)

WUC is home to dozens of species, including capybaras, alpacas, wallabies, reptiles and more.  

The animals are looked after by knowledgeable staff who provide specialist care, with support from students studying animal-related courses. 

WUC delivers popular college, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in animal management and science.  

Former students have progressed to work in an exciting range of roles, ranging from international conservation to animal welfare officers and much more.