The answer to this question is a bit complicated and depends on how you define “fly.” If you mean did they ever have the ability to flap their wings and generate lift like birds do today then the answer is probably no. However if you simply mean did they ever get airborne even if only for a short time or Distance then the answer is more likely yes.
There are several reasons why it is unlikely that ostriches ever had the ability to true flight. One is that their wings are relatively small compared to their body size. Another is that their feathers are not as efficient at generating lift as the feathers of true flying birds. And finally their legs are so long and powerful that it is doubtful that they could generate the necessary power to takeoff and stay airborne for any length of time.
There are however some indications that ostriches may have been able to get airborne at one time in their evolutionary history. First fossil evidence shows that some ostrich-like birds had significantly larger wings than their modern descendants. Second some scientists believe that the feathers of early birds may have been more efficient at generating lift than those of modern birds. And finally it has been suggested that the legs of early birds may have been relatively shorter and less powerful than those of modern birds making it easier for them to generate the necessary power for takeoff and flight.
Whether or not ostriches could fly at one time in their evolutionary history is still a matter of debate. However it is clear that they are not capable of true flight today.
How long have ostriches been around?
Ostriches have been around for 2.
5 million years.
Where do ostriches live?
Ostriches live in Africa
What do ostriches eat?
Ostriches are herbivores and eat plants
How big are ostriches?
Ostriches are the biggest bird and can grow up to 9 feet tall
How much do ostriches weigh?
Ostriches weigh between 150-350 pounds
What is the fastest speed an ostrich can run?
Ostriches can run up to 43 miles per hour
How many eggs does an ostrich lay?
Ostriches can lay between 1-3 eggs
What is the lifespan of an ostrich?
Ostriches can live up to 40-70 years
What is the tallest ostrich on record?
The tallest ostrich on record was 9 feet 5 inches tall
How many bones are in an ostrich’s neck?
Ostriches have 7 bones in their necks
What does an ostrich’s neck do?
Ostriches use their necks to store fat
What is the smallest ostrich on record?
The smallest ostrich on record was 5 feet tall
How much does the smallest ostrich on record weigh?
The smallest ostrich on record weighed 90 pounds
How long is an ostrich’s neck?
Ostriches have necks that are 3-4 feet long
What is the wingspan of an ostrich?
Ostriches have a wingspan of 6-7 feet
