Ostriches are the largest extant species of bird. They are native to Africa and the only living member of the genus Struthio. Ostriches are mostly associated with the hot arid plains of the Sahara Desert but can also be found in woodlands and savannahs.
Interestingly ostriches have many unique physical and behavioral characteristics including their ability to run faster than any other land animal (up to 40 mph / 70 km/h) and their large eyes (which are about the size of a human fist). But did you know that ostriches also have suicidal tendencies?
A study published in the journal Ethology found that ostriches sometimes behave in a self-destructive manner characterized by an “abnormal and self-injurious preoccupation with death.” The study’s authors believe that this behavior may be linked to the birds’ “unusually high level of intelligence.”
While the study’s sample size was small (just four birds) the findings suggest that ostriches may be more prone to suicide than other animals. This is likely due to the fact that ostriches are able to think abstractly and have a deep understanding of their own mortality.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts please seek professional help. If you are in the United States call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
How often do ostriches commit suicide?
Answer 1: It is unknown how often ostriches commit suicide but it is thought to be quite rare.
What causes ostriches to commit suicide?
Answer 2: The exact cause of ostrich suicides is unknown but it is believed to be related to stress and depression.
How do ostriches commit suicide?
Answer 3: Ostriches typically commit suicide by drowning themselves or by smashing their heads against objects.
Why do some people believe that ostriches have suicidal tendencies?
Answer 4: The belief that ostriches have suicidal tendencies is likely based on the fact that they are known to experience high levels of stress and depression.
Do all ostriches have suicidal tendencies?
Answer 5: No not all ostriches have suicidal tendencies.
However it is thought that a majority of them do experience high levels of stress and depression.
What are the signs that an ostrich is considering suicide?
Answer 6: Some of the signs that an ostrich is considering suicide include withdrawing from social interactions exhibiting aggressive behaviors and engaging in self-destructive behaviors.
Can suicidal ostriches be helped?
Answer 7: It is possible to help an ostrich that is exhibiting signs of suicide by providing them with a safe environment and plenty of social interaction.
What is the life expectancy of an ostrich?
Answer 8: The life expectancy of an ostrich is about 30 to 40 years.
Are there any other animals that have suicidal tendencies?
Answer 9: While there are no definitive studies on the matter some people believe that other animals such as dogs and cats may also have suicidal tendencies.
Do humans have suicidal tendencies?
Answer 10: Yes humans have been known to commit suicide.
However it is important to note that not all humans have suicidal tendencies.
Why do some people believe that ostriches are more likely to commit suicide than other animals?
Answer 11: The belief that ostriches are more likely to commit suicide than other animals is likely based on the fact that they are known to experience high levels of stress and depression.
If an ostrich commits suicide will its body be found?
Answer 12: It is possible for an ostrich’s body to be found after it commits suicide.
However it is also possible for the body to go unnoticed.
What will happen to an ostrich’s body after it commits suicide?
Answer 13: An ostrich’s body will decompose in the same way as any other animal’s body.
How can I tell if an ostrich is suicidal?
Answer 14: If an ostrich is exhibiting signs of suicide such as withdrawing from social interactions exhibiting aggressive behaviors and engaging in self-destructive behaviors it is possible that it is considering suicide.
What should I do if I think an ostrich is suicidal?
Answer 15: If you think an ostrich is suicidal it is important to provide it with a safe environment and plenty of social interaction.
Additionally you should contact a professional if you are concerned for the ostrich’s safety.
