As an expert in the field of zoology and regional emblems, I am well-versed in the fauna of various regions and their significance as symbols of cultural and ecological heritage. Australia, being a continent rich in biodiversity, has a state animal that is not only iconic but also deeply rooted in the country's identity.

The Emu is recognized as the national bird of Australia, and it holds a special place in the country's history and symbolism. Alongside the Kangaroo, the Emu is featured on the Australian coat of arms, representing the nation's unique wildlife and the fact that both animals cannot move backward, symbolizing progress and forward movement. The Emu is a large, flightless bird native to Australia and is known for its distinctive appearance with long legs, a brownish-grey body, and a small head with a hard beak. Emus are social creatures that travel in groups and are known for their long-distance running capabilities.

While the Emu is the national bird, it is important to note that Australia does not have a single "state animal" that represents the entire country at the federal level. Instead, various states and territories have their own faunal emblems. For instance, the Kangaroo is the faunal emblem of the state of New South Wales, and the Ningaloo, a type of whale shark, is the faunal emblem of Western Australia.

In the context of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), as mentioned, there is no official animal emblem. However, the Gang-Gang Cockatoo, with its ash-grey plumage, was adopted as the bird emblem for the ACT on 27 February 1997. This bird is known for its vibrant red head and crest, which makes it stand out among other species of cockatoos. The Gang-Gang Cockatoo is native to southeastern Australia and is particularly associated with the forests of the Australian Capital Territory.

The selection of faunal emblems is not arbitrary; it is often based on the ecological significance of the species, their cultural relevance, and their representation of the region's natural heritage. These emblems serve to promote conservation efforts, educate the public about native species, and foster a sense of pride and connection to the local environment.

In conclusion, while the Emu is a prominent bird in Australian symbolism, it is not the state animal of Australia in the sense of representing the entire nation. Instead, Australia's rich wildlife is celebrated through the emblems of its various states and territories, each highlighting the unique biodiversity of their regions.

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Australian Capital Territory. While the ACT has no official animal emblem, it does have a bird emblem. The gang-gang Cockatoo, with its ash-grey plumage, was adopted as the faunal emblem for the ACT on 27 February, 1997.Aug 1, 2014read more >>