Three new rhea chicks hatch at Feufield Farm

Kim is now hoping that chicks Murray (named after Scots tennis ace Andy), Caroline (named after Feufield worker Caroline Wong) and Summer (an ironic reference to the ‘wonderful’ summer we’re having) will prove popular with visitors to the farm.

“These birds are absolutely delightful,” said Kim.

“They look like something out of Jurassic Park and make a lovely peeping, whistly sound that can go on for ages.

“It is difficult to get them eating up to the age of three months, so it can be a very intensive process getting them to take any food from you.

“But Murray is eating very well, Caroline is enjoying the mash we are giving her and Summer is enjoying lounging in a travelling cot.

“It’s very interesting when you’re feeding these birds because you have to use your hands like a beak and use a petting motion to encourage them to eat.”

For more on this story pick up a copy of the Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.