Ostrich

Ostriches are native to northern Africa. There are two recognized species and five subspecies. They are flightless and the largest birds on the planet. Their average weight is 63 – 145 kg (139 – 320 lb). Adults stand up to 2.8 m (9 ft) in height.

Ostrich feathers have no barbs which would hold them together. As a result ostrich feathers are loose and sway when the bird is moving.

Ostriches eat plant matter and invertebrates. During the breeding season they live in nomadic groups of up to a hundred birds. Females lay the largest eggs of any living bird. Chicks can grow at a rate of 25 centimetres a month during their first year.

An ostrich can run in a short burst at 70 km/h (43 mph) and maintain a running speed of 50 km/hr (30 mph) making it the fastest two legged animal on earth.

Fun Facts!

  • Ostriches are farmed primarily for their feathers and meat in many countries. In Australia farmed birds escaped into the wild to produce large feral populations.
  • The story that an ostrich will hide its head in the ground when frightened is only a myth. When threatened they do lower their head to reduce their outline.

Ostrich @ Safari Niagara

  • Safari Niagara is home to one male and two female ostriches.
  • Their paddock is located just across from the budgie exhibit.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Struthioniformes
Family: Struthionidae
Genus: Struthio
Species: S. camelus

Did you know?

  • When threatened the ostrich defends itself with powerful kicks. However, it can only kick forward, not backwards.
  • Ostriches are most active early and late in the day.