Differences between ostrich, emu and rhea

A biodiversity of planet Earth means that there are animals that look similar, but that present differences that many people cannot distinguish without a deeper look.

One of the classic examples of similar animals is the confusion between tortoise, tortoise and tortoise. In the class of birds, especially those that do not fly, a recurring issue is the differentiation between the ostrich, The emu and the rhea.

However, although there are many similarities, such as the large size, dark coat and long neck, there are clear differences. To learn more and become an expert in recognizing them, find out what the differences between ostrich, emu and rhea.

Ostrich

The ostrich is native to the mainland African and it was almost extinct because of the demand for its feathers, used in headdresses. Today, it is a protected animal.

This bird can weigh around 70 kilos and measure more than eight feet tall. The long, thin legs and paws with only two fingers allow it to reach up to 70km/h, despite its robust body. Its beak is short and the head is small in relation to the body and neck, which is long and thin.

The males of the species have black feathers, while the females and young have brownish-gray feathers. They live in groups and have a defined feeding routine. This, in turn, is different, since the bird can ingest even stones without suffering consequences, hence the famous saying “ostrich stomach”.

Emma

The rhea originates from Australia, and because it is so similar to the ostrich, it was named the Australian ostrich. The neck is an important difference, since the emu has a long neck, but thicker than the others.

The paw is similar to that of the rhea, with three fingers, and the body does not exceed 1.80 meters in height. This species also lives in groups and in environments with few trees.

Rhea

The rhea lives in South America and has been spreading from Brazil to Patagonia, but suffers from hunting and agriculture. For this reason, they are more located in the region of the Argentine pampas.

Its wings are long, drooping and gray. Paws are made up of three fingers. The legs are covered with feathers and are shorter compared to the ostrich. In addition, its beak is smaller and less robust.

The rhea's diet is herbivorous and they prefer to live in environments with few trees, since this way they can see predators approaching and gain an advantage with their speed.

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