Ostrich -
largest bird in the world
The Ostrich is
the largest bird in the world, typically weighing 63.5-131.5 kg and measuring 6–
9 ft in height. Ostriches can run at maximum speeds of about 97.5 km/h (60.6
mph), making it both the fastest bird on land and the fastest two-legged animal
in the world. Ostrich eggs are the largest of all bird eggs and on average they
are 5.9 inch long and 5.1 inch wide, and weigh 1.4 kg.
The Ostrich has just two
toes on each foot, with the nail on the larger, inner toe resembling a hoof.
The outer toe has no nail, and the reduced number of toes is an adaptation that
appears to aid in running.
Ostrich wings reach a span of 7 ft and are used in
mating displays and to shade chicks. Ostriches mainly feed on seeds, shrubs,
grass, fruit and flowers. The Ostrich are reared for its feathers, which are decorative and are
also used as feather dusters. Its skin is used for leather products and it is
claimed that
Ostriches produce some of the strongest commercial leather. Its meat
is marketed commercially with a taste similar to lean beef and is low in fat
and cholesterol and high in calcium, protein and iron.
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