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Reading African ostrich facts helps students enhance their general knowledge about birds on this planet. Native to Africa, these flightless birds have always been the centre of attention for their large size, fluffy feathers, small heads, and incredible running speed. On the other hand, animal lovers love ostriches for their commendable adaption to savannas and deserts. With strong legs, the kicks of these birds can cause some serious damage. So, it is best to stay away and admire them from a distance. However, if you want your students to learn facts about birds, here are some interesting African ostrich facts for kids in English.
Table of Contents
| Particulars | Details |
| Scientific name | Struthio camelus |
| Common name | Ostrich |
| Diet | Roots, leaves, seeds, snakes, lizards, rodents |
| Predators | Cheetahs, lions, hyenas, hunting dogs, leopards |
| Top speed | 70 km/h |
| Weight | More than 150kg |
| Lifespan | 40-45 years in the wild |
| Habitat | African savannas, open woodlands, and grasslands |
| Conservation status | Least concern |
10 Interesting African Ostrich Facts
As evident, ostriches are tall, full of big feathers, and impressively fast. Over the years, they have evolved to adapt to the harsh conditions and environments. Here are 10 interesting facts about ostrich for kids.
1. Ostriches belong to the group of flightless birds called ratites.
2. It is the largest living bird.
3. There are 2 species of ostrich birds- the Common Ostrich and the Somali Ostrich.
4. The Common Ostrich birds are found in sub-Saharan Africa whereas the Somali Ostriches live in the Horn of Africa.
5. Ostriches are characterised by a long neck, sturdy legs, and a bulky body covered with feathers.
6. They have a small head, a wide beak, and big eyes protected by long dark lashes.
7. Ostriches live in groups called herds. Each herd can consist of about 12 individuals.
An adult ostrich male can be 2.75 metres tall and more than 150 kg.
8. An ostrich egg is the world’s largest egg.
9. Male ostriches are mostly black with white plumes in the wings and tail.
10. Female ostriches are brown.
Also Read: 20 Impressive Facts About Peacocks!
Fun Facts About African Ostrich
Fun facts about ostriches are not limited to their appearance, speed, or species. There are so many other unknown facts about them such as:
1. Ostriches can go without water for long periods of time.
2. They are found in grassland, open woodland, and savannah.
3. Ostrich are fast runners and can cover 5 metres in a single stride.
4. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards are the common predators of ostriches.
5. Ostriches are primarily vegetarian but they sometimes eat insects and rodents.
6. During the breeding season, the herd’s alpha male makes a nest in the ground. He attracts females by dancing.
7. Females may lay up to 11 eggs at a time.
8. Baby ostriches hack after about 40 days of incubation.
9. Ostriches have two toes on each foot, a common trait called didactylism.
10. Their stomach is divided into two parts, the glandular stomach and the gizzard. Initial digestion occurs in the former whereas the latter is a muscular part that grinds the food.
11. Sometimes ostriches ingest stones and pebbles which stay in the gizzard part of their stomachs and help break down tough plant material.
12. Many ostriches create a roaring sound to defend their territory or to attract mates.
13. Their scientific name, Struthio camelus, shows that they might have been once known as the camel bird.
14. One ostrich egg is equal to around 24 chicken eggs.
15. Their intestines are 14 meters long.
Unknown Facts About Ostrich
Historical records show that many cultures gave cultural and spiritual significance to different animals and birds. Here are some unknown facts about ostrich that tell us about their connection with the past.
1. In ancient times, Egyptians and Babylonians raised and traded ostriches for feathers.
2. Ostrich plumage was used as an accessory for royalty and wealthy people.
3. They are capable of killing or disembowelling a person with a single blow.
4. Ostrich nests are generally communal, meaning that one nest is shared among multiple female ostriches.
5. Ostriches do not have teeth.
6. Their eyes are about the size of a billiard ball.
Interesting Reads
FAQs
Recognised as the world’s largest bird, Ostriches are found exclusively in Africa. They prefer to live in open woodlands, African savannas, and grassland.
One special fact about the ostrich birds is that they can run at an impressive speed of 40 mph. In other words, they can outrun their common predators such as leopards, lions, and hyenas. Although they cannot fly, they can kick with incredible force.
No, Ostriches are flightless birds belonging to the group called ratites. Although they cannot fly, ostriches are the fastest-running birds in the world. They can run at an impressive speed of up to 43 mph and outrun their common predators.
5 interesting facts about ostriches are the largest living bird, they have a long neck, sturdy legs, and a bulky body full of feathers, there are 2 species called the Common Ostrich and the Somali Ostrich, and their big brown eyes are protected by long lashes, and lastly, they live in groups called herds.
It is believed that South Africa has the most number of ostriches in the world. They live in open woodlands, savannas, and grasslands.
Female ostriches lay 12-18 eggs in natural conditions or in the wild. On the other hand, ostriches living on farms may produce 10-20 eggs in the first year and more than 100 eggs in subsequent years.
We hope you like reading these interesting African Ostrich facts. If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our Interesting Facts and General Knowledge page!