Ostrich

Struthio camelus

Animal Class: Birds

Height: 6-9 feet

Weight: 140-320 pounds

Diet: Seeds, shrubs, grass, fruit and flowers.

Habitat: Prefer open land and are native to the savannas and Sahel of Africa.

Description: The ostrich is the tallest and the heaviest of all birds. While the huge ostrich is a bird, it does not fly. Instead it runs. One stride can cover up to 16 feet (4.9 meters)—about the length of a mid-size family car! The bird is speedy, too. It can run just over 40 miles (64 kilometers) an hour for a short distance, and can keep up a speed of more than 30 miles (48 kilometers) an hour over longer distances. The ostrich uses its short wings for balance, holding them outstretched when it runs. Strong legs can also be used for self-defense. An ostrich can kick with a force mighty enough to kill a lion.

Our Animals: Boone and Chardonnay (Charlie)