Greater rhea
Rhea americana
At the Detroit Zoo
The greater rhea can be found in the American Grasslands.
Description
Greater rheas are the largest birds in the Americas. Their plumage is grayish-brown with darker patches on their necks. Adapted for running and not flying, the greater rhea’s legs are extremely powerful.
Fun Facts
-
Greater rheas use their wings as rudders while running in order to out-maneuver a predator.
-
Greater rheas are a South American species. They are flightless birds — much like the emus in Australia and ostriches in Africa.