When it comes to animal parenting ostriches are not exactly at the top of the list. In fact they are often considered to be among the worst parents in the animal kingdom. However there is more to the story than meets the eye. Yes ostriches are not the most attentive or nurturing parents but they do have some redeeming qualities that make them good parents in their own way.
For starters ostriches are very protective of their young. They will fiercely defend their chicks from any perceived threat even if it means putting their own lives at risk. This is a quality that is shared by many other animals but it is still worth mentioning.
Ostriches also have a very strong maternal instinct. This is most evident when the chicks are hatchlings. The mother will carefully watch over them and make sure they are safe and warm. She will also help them to learn how to find food and avoid predators.
Another redeeming quality of ostriches is their longevity. Ostriches can live for up to 70 years which means they can provide for their young for a very long time. This is in contrast to many other animals who have a much shorter lifespan.
So while ostriches may not be the best parents in the animal kingdom they do have some redeeming qualities that make them good parents in their own way.
What is the smallest member of the ostrich family?
The dwarf ostrich.
What is the largest member of the ostrich family?
The common ostrich.
What is the name of the smallest member of the ostrich family?
The dwarf ostrich.
What is the name of the largest member of the ostrich family?
The common ostrich.
What is the average lifespan of an ostrich?
20 – 30 years.
What is the average lifespan of a dwarf ostrich?
20 – 30 years.
What is the average lifespan of a common ostrich?
20 – 30 years.
How many eggs can a common ostrich lay in one clutch?
10 – 12.
How many eggs can a dwarf ostrich lay in one clutch?
8 – 10.
What is the incubation period for an ostrich egg?
42 – 46 days.
What is the incubation period for a dwarf ostrich egg?
40 – 45 days.
What is the incubation period for a common ostrich egg?
42 – 46 days.
How long do ostriches stay with their parents?
Until they reach sexual maturity at 2 – 4 years old.
How long do dwarf ostriches stay with their parents?
Until they reach sexual maturity at 2 – 4 years old.
How long do common ostriches stay with their parents?
Until they reach sexual maturity at 2 – 4 years old.
