Rhea americana
The Greater Rhea (Rhea americana) is a majestic, flightless bird, standing as the largest avian species native to South America. Adults typically measure 1.2 to 1.5 meters (4 to 5 feet) tall and weigh between 20 and 40 kg (44 to 88 lbs), showcasing a distinctive greyish-brown plumage with a lighter underside. Their long neck and legs, small head, and large eyes are characteristic, while the absence of true tail feathers, replaced by soft, flowing body plumage, distinguishes their silhouette. ...
Found primarily in open grasslands, savannas (cerrado), and open woodlands across South America. They thrive in low-lying areas, generally below 1,200 meters (4,000 feet) in elevation.
Omnivorous, primarily consuming a wide variety of plant material including leaves, seeds, and fruits. They also supplement their diet with insects, lizards, and small birds, foraging by grazing and ground gleaning.
Greater Rheas are diurnal, most active during the cooler parts of the day and often roosting communally in open areas at night. Their foraging strategy involves extensive grazing on vegetation and gleaning insects and small vertebrates from the ground, using their long necks to reach food sources...
The Greater Rhea is endemic to South America, with its natural range spanning vast areas of grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands. Its primary distribution includes central and eastern Brazil, central and northern Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. There are five recognized subspecies,...
Near Threatened
- Greater Rheas are among the few bird species where the male takes on all incubation and chick-rearing duties, often caring for a 'crèche' of up to 60 chicks from multiple mothers. - Their Guarani name, 'Ñandú,' translates to 'spider,' possibly due to their habit of standing with their neck stre...