The ostrich is Africa’s giant flightless bird, adapted to open plains where speed is the best defence. The Somali ostrich of the Horn of Africa is now often treated as a separate species.
Interesting facts
- It is the largest and heaviest living bird.
- It is the fastest runner of any bird, with strides of up to about 5 m.
- Ostriches have only two toes on each foot.
- Its eyes are about 5 cm across, larger than its brain.
- The idea that ostriches bury their heads in sand is a myth; they lower their heads to turn eggs or hide.
- A powerful kick can seriously injure a lion or a person.
Behaviour
Ostriches live in small groups, often mixing with zebras and antelope, which benefits all through shared vigilance. They can go long periods without drinking.
Breeding and young
A dominant female and several other females lay eggs in a single communal nest, which the dominant pair incubate, the male mostly at night.
Threats and conservation
Widespread; local declines from hunting and habitat loss, particularly in North and West Africa.
Where to see it
- Maasai Mara and Samburu, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
- Etosha, Namibia
- Kgalagadi, South Africa
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Samburu National Reserve and the Samburu Special Five
