Ostrich
The ostrich is a large flightless bird native to Africa and the largest living bird species.
The ostrich is a large flightless bird native to Africa and the largest living bird species. It belongs to the genus Struthio, with two living species recognized today: the common ostrich and the Somali ostrich. Ostriches are known for their long legs, speed, and large eggs.
Description
Ostriches are large, long-legged birds with a small head and long neck. Males are typically black and white, while females are usually brownish.
Habitat and range
Wild ostriches live in Africa, especially in savannas, grasslands, deserts, and open woodland. They are not naturally found outside Africa.
Behaviour and diet
Ostriches are omnivorous and eat plants, seeds, and insects. They are social birds and can live in groups called flocks.
Reproduction
Ostriches lay very large eggs, the largest of any living bird. Chicks hatch after an incubation period of roughly 40 days.
Conservation
The common ostrich is listed as Least Concern, while the Somali ostrich is listed as Vulnerable. Main pressures include habitat loss and human activity.
Key facts
- The ostrich is the largest and heaviest living bird.
- It is flightless but is among the fastest two-legged animals on Earth.
- Ostriches have long legs, a long neck, and two-toed feet.
- They are native to Africa and live in open habitats.
- Ostrich eggs are the largest eggs of any living land animal.
Ostriches are not native to Canada, but they are familiar to Canadian readers through zoos, wildlife education, and ostrich farming in some regions.
Frequently asked questions
What is an ostrich?
How many species of ostrich are living today?
How fast can an ostrich run?
What do ostriches eat?
Do ostriches fly?
References
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/ostrichSupports: Ostrich is a large flightless bird found only in Africa; scientific name; general classification.
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo — https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/ostrichSupports: Largest and heaviest bird; native to Africa; flightless; fast runner.
- National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/facts/ostrichSupports: Scientific name; size; weight; lifespan; speed; diet.
- PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/ostrich-fact-sheet/Supports: Two living species; conservation status of common and Somali ostrich.
- IFAW — https://www.ifaw.org/international/animals/ostrichesSupports: Two living species; habitats; speed; native range; conservation pressures.