Greater Rhea

The Rhea is the largest of all South American birds and is related to ostriches and emus. They have great balance due to the three toes on each foot and are able to often outrun various predators. These flightless birds use their long, powerful legs to outrun trouble. Rhea eggs are collected for food and many people eat their meat.

Rheas are mostly vegetarian and prefer broad-leafed plants, fruits, seeds and roots, but will eat insects such as grasshoppers and small reptiles and rodents. Rheas can be between 3 and 5 feet tall and weigh around 50lbs! The average lifespan in the wild is 15 years.