Rhea americana (American), Rhea pennata (Darwin’s)
Range
There are 2 species of rhea; Darwin’s rhea and American rhea. Both are found in South America.
Habitat
They live on the grasslands (pampas) and open brushy areas.
Body Traits
They are 4-6 feet tall with a gray neck and face with a black cap on the top of their head and cheek. Their body color is usually gray, with black feathers on the shoulder area and under tail on the male. The female is only gray. They have long, naked legs with three clawed toes.
Habits
The rhea are fast runners and escape predators by being able to change direction quickly while running. They also “hide” by lying flat on the ground. In defense, they can strike a strong blow with their feet. Both their sight and hearing are excellent. They flock into groups of up to 30 birds and will also flock with herds of cattle.
Diet
They eat seeds, roots, grasses, leaves, insects, worms, and lizards.
Reproduction
Males gather a group of 6 – 8 females (harem). They nest in a dent on the ground, where each female lays up to 20 yellow eggs. The males then warm (incubates) them for more than a month.
Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Aves
Order: Struthioniformes
Family: Rheidae
Genus: Rhea
Species: R. americana