Ostrich Safari Spotlight
The ostrich (Struthio camelus) is the world's largest and heaviest living bird, standing tall at up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) and weighing up to 350 pounds (160 kg). These flightless birds are native to Africa and thrive in savannas, deserts, and open woodlands.
Anatomy & Adaptations
- Powerful legs: Can run at speeds up to 45 mph (72 km/h) with strides of 10-16 feet (3-5 meters)
- Kicking force: A single kick can kill a lion or human with 2,000 psi of force
- Unique feet: Only two toes (most birds have three or four) with a lethal 4-inch claw
- Specialized eyes: Largest of any land vertebrate (2 inches across), with eyelashes to protect from dust
Wild Behavior
Ostriches live in nomadic groups of 5-50 birds, often mixing with zebras and antelopes. They have a complex social structure with dominant males maintaining harems of 2-7 females. Contrary to myth, they don't bury their heads in sand - they lie flat with necks outstretched to camouflage.
During mating season, males perform elaborate courtship dances, shaking wings and swaying side to side. Their booming calls can be heard up to 2 miles away! Females lay their eggs in a communal nest (up to 60 eggs), with the dominant female's eggs in the center for best protection.
Fun Safari Facts
- Ostriches swallow pebbles (up to 2.2 lbs!) to help grind food in their gizzard
- Their eggs are the largest of any living bird (6 inches long, weighing 3 lbs) - equivalent to 24 chicken eggs!
- They can go without water for days, getting moisture from plants
- Ancient Egyptians domesticated ostriches for feathers and eggs
- Ostrich leather is considered one of the finest and most durable leathers
- Their tendons are studied by engineers for biomimicry in shock absorption
Spot these magnificent birds on our Savanna Safari Adventure tours!
