A LARGE bird similar to an ostrich is on the loose in Kent after escaping from its owner.

The South American rhea got out of its pen in Benenden on Monday when owner Sue Savage put pigs into the enclosure.

The RSPCA have warned that the bird could potentially kill a human.

Roy Jezard, an RSPCA animal collection officer, said: "They look nice and people want to pat them, but I really don’t recommend it.

"They’re so strong it’s unbelievable. They can kill you with one strike of their feet because their claws are six inches long."

Three rheas originally escaped after being startled by the pigs. The RSPCA has caught one and a second returned home of its own accord.

The RSPCA can be contacted on 0870 555 5999.