Rhea Lesser basic information

Because it closely resembles the ostrich, though in greatly reduced proportions, the Lesser Rhea is sometimes called the South American Ostrich. Usually, they are between 35 inches (92 and 100 centimeters) long at maturity, and weigh about 22 pounds (between 10 and 25 kilograms). They are usually meatier than Common Rheas when body weight is compared to size. Lesser Rheas have large nails on each of their three toes. Their brown or golden brown plumage is soft and appears fluffy, though each feather is smooth. White speckles are sprinkled throughout the Lesser Rhea's coloration, though females often have fewer white spots than males. The head and neck are covered in shorter, contour feathers. Juveniles usually do not have any white coloring, which they will acquire when they are between three and four years old.