Sensation in Illingen: Nandu chicks hatch - a secret of nature!
Find out more about rheas in Illingen: breeding, habitat and protective measures for these fascinating ratites.

Sensation in Illingen: Nandu chicks hatch - a secret of nature!
In a breathtaking incident that will make the hearts of animal lovers in Illingen and far beyond beat faster, Leon Kieslinger is the region's new pride! A few weeks ago, THREE rhea chicks hatched from their eggs in his spacious yard - a true miracle of nature! This SENSATION causes excitement, while the curious onlookers are already raving about the sight of the fluffy, gray chicks. But that's not all!
The rheas, which come from the mysterious expanses of South America, are indeed EXOTIC WONDER BEASTS! With their gray plumage, large eyes and broad, flat beak, they are nothing less than fascinating creatures of the grasslands. Did you know that these impressive ratites can grow up to 1.4 meters high and weigh up to 50 kg? Wikipedia reports that they are also skilled swimmers, whose extraordinary call resembles the roar of a big cat!
The secret of rhea keeping
But keeping these remarkable birds is not without its challenges: it is subject to strict regulations and requires great commitment from the owners. The Nandus have been living in picturesque Illingen for four years and have become local celebrities. There was even a palm-sized egg that came from the couple resting on the Creyaufmüller family farm!
An incredible number of 566 rheas now live in Germany, making them a protected species. Their populations have suffered since the destruction of their habitats and intensive hunting. In the 19th century, a sensational 300,000 to 500,000 rheas were killed every year! And yet their population is now flourishing - not least thanks to committed keepers like Leon Kieslinger.
Dramatic return of the rheas
Did you know that rheas live in groups of up to 30 individuals outside of the breeding season? They are true survivors of the open savannah and are edible on everything from broad-leaved plants to small insects! But the breeding season is dangerous because while the chicks are hatching, the male becomes an aggressive defender of his territory. A shocking behavior that can hardly be surpassed in terms of drama!
For nature and bird watching enthusiasts, the sight of these fascinating ratites is nothing short of a revelation! It's time to make your way to Illingen and let yourself be enchanted by the rhea show. Be part of this extraordinary story and experience the raising of the little chicks up close! Mühlacker Tagblatt has all the details for you - don't miss this opportunity to discover the wonders of nature!