Lesser Rhea

Overview

Lesser Rhea (Rhea pennata) is a species of Rheas (Rheidae) in the order Rheas. A smaller rhea of the high Andes and Patagonian steppe, well adapted to cold dry plains; gray-brown plumage with white flecks; swift runner feeding on plants and insects.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Rhea; binomial: Rhea pennata; authority: d'Orbigny, 1837. Typical size: 90-100cm. Average lifespan: 10-20 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: South America.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

Pterocnemia merged into Rhea (SACC 348); change English name to Lesser Rhea to conform to general usage.