A RHEA has been found wandering five miles from home after thieves tried to steal him from his pen.

Police are appealing for information after the large flightless bird, similar to an ostrich, was taken sometime between 8.30pm on Friday, July 12 and 8.30am on Saturday, July 13.

He was spotted by a horse-rider and a farmer yesterday and re-united with owners Paul Inch and Joanna Hunt of Dorset Poultry in Wolfeton.

Mr Inch said: “This was definitely an attempt to take him.

“I think they must have tried to get him out of the gate and he kicked out and got away from them and ran away.

“Whoever did this must be black and blue. They definitely bit off more than they could chew.”

No arrests have been made.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting crime number C:13:D:28189. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.