A beloved emu has gone missing from his home after potentially falling into a rain-swollen river.
Search parties have been hunting for Irwin after he disappeared two days ago.
His owners fear the affectionate bird, who loves cuddles, may have slipped into the water at night.
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Members of the public have been urged to look out for his poo and feathers.
Irwin has lived at Malmesbury Animal Sanctuary, in Malmesbury, Wiltshire – close to the River Avon – for five years.
Gary Nageb, who works at the sanctuary, said he was not known to wander.
“We have searched each and every garden that backs onto the river and flown hi-resolution drones over the area and along the river’s path, all to no avail,” he told Need To Know.
“However, emus are hardy animals and he could be lurking on a river bank, or tucked behind a hedge or under a tree somewhere catching his breath and evaluating his newly altered situation.
“He’s a most affectionate animal who loves cuddles.
“We have over 30 volunteers who love Irwin dearly and wish for his speedy return.
“We shall not halt the search until we find our beloved Irwin.”
Mr Nageb said the whole staff is concerned for his safety and fears he may have slipped into the river and been swept downstream.
He said: “Emus are strong and natural swimmers so it’s more likely that he exited on the opposite side of the river and is now resting.
“Irwin has lived in the field for over five years and has never left it before in all weathers so this behaviour is unusual and therefore likely to be an accident.
“Can we please ask everyone in that area to search their gardens?
“Keep a look out and let us know if you have seen any suspicious behaviour around the sanctuary.”
Mr Nageb added that the team would try and communicate with Irwin by thumping a wooden barrel near the river which he says produces a sound not unlike an emu call.
The sanctuary shared photos of emu poo and feathers in case members of the public spotted the clues to his whereabouts.
A spokesperson added: “Fresh emu poo has a white streak through it.
“If it’s a bit old or it has rained it may flatten like the other pic.”
Emu feathers are long and always come in a joined pair.“If anyone sees anything of this description please let us know.”
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