Rhea pennata

The lesser rhea is a large, flightless bird native to South America and a close relative of the ostrich and emu. Known for their long legs and curious nature, these birds are built for life on open grasslands.

Lesser rheas live in grasslands, shrublands, and open plains across Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. They prefer wide, open spaces where they can spot predators from far away. Although they cannot fly, they are strong runners and use their wings to help balance while sprinting.

Lesser rheas are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet includes grasses, seeds, fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. By feeding on a variety of foods, they help control insect populations and spread plant seeds throughout their habitat.

These birds are social and often gather in small groups outside of breeding season. During breeding season, males take on an important role-they build nests, incubate the eggs, and care for the chicks after they hatch. A single nest can hold eggs from multiple females!

Did You Know?
Lesser rheas can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour! They can live 10–15 years in the wild and even longer in human care. Despite their size, they are surprisingly agile and can quickly change direction while running.