Rhea is a member of the group of flightless birds. This is the largest bird in the South America. There are two species of rhea: Greater or American Rhea and Darwin’s Rhea. They differ in size and in type of habitat they inhabit. The Greater Rhea is the fifth biggest bird on earth.
Fast Facts about Rhea
1. Greater Rhea can reach 5 feet in height and weight of up to 55 pounds. Darwin’s Rhea can reach 3 feet in height and 22 pounds in weight.
2. Rheas have a deep, resounding call, which resembles the roar of a mammal more than the call of a bird. Mainly produced by the male during courtship, the sound of this call gives the rhea its local name, “ñandú”
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3. Rheas are omnivorous, preferring broad-leafed plants, but also eating seeds, roots, fruit, insects, and small vertebrates.
4. Rheas have many uses in South America. Feathers are used for feather dusters, skins are used for cloaks or leather, and they also produce delicious fat-free meat.
5. Although it is unable to fly, rhea can run very fast and reach the speed of up to 40 miles per hour. Wings provide stability during running. Rheas are very inquisitive.
6. Rheas mature at 2 years. They Lay 30 or more eggs in the spring.
7. The male is sole responsible for incubating and rearing the chicks.
8. Rhea has large wings, but it is a flightless bird because it lacks breast bone which connects muscles required for flying
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9. During the winter, rheas gather in group composed of up to 50 animals of both sex. Group of rheas is called a “flock”. They sometimes even combine with other, unrelated animals, such as deer or guanacos.
10. Young rhea grows quickly and it reaches adult size in six months. However, it will not mate until it reaches the age of 2 to 3 years old. Maximum lifespan of the rhea in the wild is 15 years.
