Ostriches

 

 

 

New to the Zoo, ostriches are the giraffes of the bird world. They are tall like giraffes and both have long legs and excellent eyesight. An ostrich chick grows one foot taller each month for the first seven to eight months of it's life. Adult ostrich roosters are six to ten feet high and can weigh up to 340 pounds.

 

They can't fly, but  are considered the fastest two-legged runner in the world. If they spot a predator, ostrich can run as fast as 45 mph for short distances and maintain 30 mph for longer. If cornered, they can deliver a strong kick with their two-toed foot (other birds have three or four toes). They kick forward, not backwards, because the joint in their knees bends that way!  And steer clear -- ostriches can have a fierce temper, though the females, which we have at the Zoo, seem to exhibit less than males.

 

Their diet is omnivorous, but relies heavily on plants and fruits. Similarly to giraffes, they drink when water is available, but are normally able to gain sufficient water from their food. 

 

Male ostriches are polygamous, but they tend the nest with a preferred mate. She lays about 6 eggs in a shallow depression in the sand. Once done, other hens will also lay eggs, though they are soon chased off by the favorite mate. But she and the male do incubate all the eggs: The female by day, and the male at night. Ostrich eggs are the largest of all eggs, and yet it is the smallest compared to the size of the bird. 

 

There are so many fun facts to learn about these truly unique birds. Here's one more: contrary to popular belief, they do not bury their heads in the sand!

 

Come on out to The African Forest to visit them and see for yourself.