Here is what you may not know about ostriches.
Ostriches are fascinating creatures. These birds are reportedly the largest living birds in the world. They also have amazing speed. Here are some interesting facts about ostriches you may not be aware of.
Ostriches' lifespan is impressive
Ostriches can live to be anywhere between 30 to 40 years in the wild. However, in some cases, they can live to be as old as 70 in captivity.
Ostriches are the biggest birds on the planet
Ostriches are the largest birds on Earth and can weigh as much as 320 pounds. They can even grow up to 9 feet tall. These birds that have amazing speed are a few feet taller than the second-tallest bird and are said to be a little heavier than the cassowary, which is the second heaviest bird. What's even more interesting is that these birds have the biggest eyes than any other bird species. They are reportedly the biggest of any animal on land.
Ostriches have incredible speed
Ostriches are well-known for their speed and are the fastest bipedal species in the world. They are said to be able to reach speeds of about 43 miles per hour. Their endurance is also very impressive as they are one of the best long-distance runners in the animal world.
Ostriches digest their food with help from pebbles
Ostriches tend to primarily consume plant matter. However, they sometimes need help to break down their food. To do so, ostriches use pebbles, and even sand, to grind up their food to be able to digest it better.
Ostriches lived on two continents at one point
There was a time when ostriches lived on two continents. They were found in Asia, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. These days they can be found in the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa and woodlands.
Ostriches have two toes per foot
Most birds on planet Earth tend to have three to four toes on each foot. However, one of the things that make ostriches unique is that they only have only two. It is what helps to improve their running form.
Ostrich feathers used to be fashionable
Ostrich feathers were a fashion statement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were used in all sorts of ways in women's fashion to make hats, capes, fans, and boas.
