The common phrase “to stick one’s head in the sand” meaning to avoid dealing with reality by pretending it doesn’t exist is derived from the belief that ostriches actually do this. It’s one of the most widespread misconceptions about ostriches. So where did this notion come from?
The saying is actually a metaphor that was first recorded in the early 1600s. At that time it was used to describe people who were avoiding problems or responsibilities. Over time the phrase became synonymous with the ostrich and its supposed behavior.
The belief that ostriches bury their heads in the sand probably originated from early observers who saw the bird digging in the sand with its beak and kicking sand backwards with its feet. When the ostrich stands up after a bout of this activity its head and neck may be partially hidden by the sand. This behavior is part of the ostrich’s sand-bathing routine.
Ostriches don’t just use sand to bathe in; they also use it to make sure their eggs are properly incubated. The bird will scoop a hollow in the sand to lay its eggs in and then cover them up with more sand. The top layer of sand helps to keep the eggs warm while the bottom layer prevents them from being exposed to the sun’s heat.
While it’s true that ostriches do sometimes stick their heads in the sand it’s not because they’re trying to avoid reality. It’s actually part of their normal behavior. So the next time you hear someone say that someone else is “sticking their head in the sand” you can be sure it’s just a figure of speech.
Does an ostrich put its head in the ground?
No an ostrich does not put its head in the ground.
