Mike Martin, age 14, of Meridian, Miss., for his question:

CAN THE RHEA FLY FAST?

The rhea is a South American bird that looks a lot like the ostrich but isn't a member of the ostrich family. Although it has very strong wings, the bird cannot fly. Instead, it runs very fast as it holds its wings down at its aides. The bird stands three to four feet tall.

Because the bird is so swift, it can outrun most of its enemies. However, if it seems to be trapped, the rhea will turn and fight. On each of he bird's feet are three strong toes, each armed with a hooked claw.

There are three species of rheas, with the most common found on the pampas and plains of Argentina and Paraguay. A second species is found only in southern Argentina while the third, which is the smallest of the three, can be found fn the northeastern part of Brazil.

Rheas live in small groups. One male usually has two or three hens in his polygamous family. All of the females belonging to one male lay their eggs in a hollow in the ground. Then, after two dozen or so eggs have been laid, the male takes over the job of hatching them.