Meat. Feathers and leather. Oils and creams. Eggs. Selling chicks to other rhea raisers. Furthering their protection. For their own sake.
You may also need permits if you are planning on selling rhea products, such as their meat. [3] X Research source
Ask a potential breeder a variety of questions, such as, “What is the health history of your breeding birds?”, “How often do you feed your birds?”, “What do you feed your birds?”, “Are your birds free of genetic problems?”, and “How did you get involved in rhea breeding in the first place?” Look at a potential bird for signs of illness or deformity, as you don’t want to get a sick bird. Make sure that the rhea’s feathers are all intact, that there are not bald spots on the bird, and that the bird doesn’t have any symptoms of illness, such as signs of diarrhea and lesions or seeping on the face, neck, or ears. [5] X Research source It is a really good idea to get an experienced rhea breeder to accompany you when purchasing your first rhea chicks or adults. This person will know to ask the right questions and will know how to steer clear of inbred, deformed or unhealthy birds.
If you are planning to hatch rheas, you will need an incubator. The incubator should keep the eggs at 99. 5 °F (38 °C) until they hatch and for up to 36 hours after they hatch.
Keep the fence free of rocks, bolts, screws, and other small items that the rhea could eat. Rheas will eat any little thing they can get a hold of. Always have the housing in place before bringing home the birds.
Rheas will also look to these plants as a food source, so plant things they like to eat, such as grasses, chicory, and alfalfa. [8] X Research source Rhea are even known to eat toxic and spiny plants, so you can plant a wide variety of plants for them to enjoy for shade and food. [9] X Research source
To reduce fighting and competition, house your rheas according to their age. Keep rheas of similar ages together. Do not put younger birds with older birds. A three-sided shed or a lean-to is adequate for adult rheas. A small garden shed would work for a young bird or two. Hay or straw can be used for rhea bedding in any of the shelters.
In the wild, rheas eat seeds, herbaceous plants, small mammals and insects. [12] X Research source
Since rhea have strong beaks, fruits and vegetables can be given to these birds whole. It’s a good idea to talk to a vet who specializes in care of large birds about your rhea’s diet. Also consider portioning out dog food to make up for any natural proteins the rheas may not be getting from not being able to roam in their natural environment.
The best grit for rhea is crushed granite. [15] X Research source Oyster shells can work well too and they provide the bird with a source of calcium. However, they break down more easily, so the bird has to eat more to ensure proper digestion.
All animals that you raise should have unlimited access to water, especially animals that spend most of their time outdoors.
