Amazing Facts About the Largest of All Birds

Ostrich (Struthio camelus) is a large, flightless bird that lives in the dry grasslands of Africa. It is the largest of all birds.

Here are some known facts about this huge bird. You may already know some of these but certainly not all. (Photos courtesy of Wikipedia)

The male will defend the hatchlings, and teach them how and on what to feed

Each male mate with 2 to 6 females who all lay their eggs in the same nest

Ostriches mate 3 times a year

Ostrich lays the largest egg of any bird species

Ostrich feet are two-toed (most birds are four), the longer toe measuring 7 in (18 cm)

Their feathers are used mainly to make feather dusters

During the 18th century, ostrich’s plumes were used to decorate hats

In some areas of northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula Ostriches are trained as racing mounts

Ostriches are farmed in over 50 countries, including climates as cold as that of Sweden and Finland

The wings are used in mating displays, and they can also provide shade for chicks

They eat seeds and grasses and require little water and can go without water for several days

Occasionally they also eat insects such as locusts

They enjoy water and frequently take baths where it is available.

An adult ostrich typically carries about 1 kg of stones in its stomach

The wings are not used for flight, but are still large, with a wingspan of around two meters (over six feet)

Ostrich has no crop, and it also lacks a gallbladder