The size of an ostrich’s feet is quite variable. Some may have very large feet while others may have smaller more delicate feet. The largest recorded ostrich foot was nearly 16 inches long and 11 inches wide! The average size of an ostrich foot is more like 10-12 inches long and 6-8 inches wide.
Ostriches have two toes on each foot with the larger inner toe being used for balance and the smaller outer toe used for mobility. The nails on these toes can be quite long and sharp and are used for self-defense as well as for digging.
The size of an ostrich’s feet is largely dependent on the size of the bird. The biggest ostriches can weigh up to 350 pounds and stand nearly 9 feet tall! The smallest ostriches are more like 5-6 feet tall and only weigh around 100 pounds.
Interestingly the size of an ostrich’s feet is also affected by the environment in which it lives. Birds that live in more arid desert-like environments tend to have larger feet than those that live in more lush green environments. This is likely due to the fact that larger feet help to distribute body weight more evenly over a larger surface area which helps to prevent sinking into soft sand.
So how big are ostriches feet? It depends! But they can range anywhere from 10-16 inches long and 6-11 inches wide.
How tall can ostriches get?
Up to 9 feet
How much can ostriches weigh?
Up to 350 pounds
What is the lifespan of an ostrich?
Up to 40-50 years
What kind of habitat do ostriches live in?
Dry open savannahs woodlands and scrublands
What do ostriches eat?
Plants seeds insects and lizards
How fast can ostriches run?
Up to 43 mph
What is the biggest threat to ostriches?
Humans
How many eggs does a female ostrich lay?
Up to 20 eggs
How long does it take for ostrich eggs to hatch?
42-46 days
Who incubates the eggs?
The female
Are ostriches friendly?
No they are not friendly and can be aggressive.
What is the primary use of ostrich feathers?
Decoration
What is the second use of ostrich feathers?
Making feather dusters
What is the third use of ostrich feathers?
Making fly swatters
What is the fourth use of ostrich feathers?
Making feather boas
