Wildlife expert backs runaway rheas' survival chances

Last Wednesday, 12 rheas, which are large flightless birds distantly related to ostriches and emus, escaped a farm in Stalham.

Originating from South America, the Greater rhea is the continent’s largest bird – growing to heights of 5ft tall and running at speeds of up to 50mph.

A few of the rheas remain on the run, with the last known sighting coming near Happisburgh last week.

READ MORE: Runaway rheas seen heading towards Norfolk coast

Now, wildlife expert Kevin Murphy, of Norfolk Wildlife Rescue, has backed the birds’ chances of survival, despite them being on the loose for almost a week.

“They should survive because they’re adaptable birds,” Mr Murphy said.

“They should be able to find more than enough food as they are mostly vegetarian, eating mostly plant-based food, but if they need to they will eat meat, finding sources of food elsewhere.

“I believe they will be all right and should still be out there.”

READ MORE: Runaway rheas! Warning as fleet-footed birds could have run 10 MILES from farm

Wild rheas are said to eat mostly broad-leafed plants, but will also eat fruits, seeds and roots – all found in Norfolk’s fields.

However, they are also said to eat insects, such as grasshoppers, as well as small reptiles and rodents.

The birds are believed to have forced their way out of their enclosure, with residents in Lyndford Road waking up to find them in their gardens and walking down the streets.

Kevin Murphy of Norfolk Wildlife Rescue (Image: Kevin Murphy)

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “Rheas are large birds and have the potential to be dangerous as they are strong, fast and have sharp claws.

“We would not recommend that anyone attempt to restrain or catch a rhea themselves, as these birds are able to kick in any direction and may kick out if they feel threatened.”