When an ostrich feels threatened it will usually attack with its powerful legs. It will first try to kick its attacker with its strong sharp claws. If that doesn’t work it will then start running and using its legs to swipe at its attacker. Its long neck also gives it the ability to peck at its attacker’s eyes.
In some cases ostriches have been known to use their beaks to impale their attackers. This is usually done when the ostrich is feeling particularly threatened and is trying to defend its young.
While ostriches usually only attack when they feel threatened there have been instances of them attacking humans for no apparent reason. In these cases the ostrich will usually charge at the human and try to knock them over. It will then start kicking and pecking at them until the person is no longer a threat.
If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being attacked by an ostrich the best thing to do is to try and get away as quickly as possible. Ostriches are not known to chase after their attackers once they have fled so you should be safe once you’re out of their sight.
What is the top speed of an ostrich?
70 mph
How many eggs does an ostrich lay in a year?
20-25
What is the lifespan of an ostrich?
40-50 years
What is the average weight of an ostrich?
250 lbs
What is the average height of an ostrich?
8-9 feet
What are the predators of an ostrich?
Lions cheetahs leopards hyenas and wild dogs.
What does an ostrich eat?
Plants seeds insects and lizards.
Where do ostriches live?
Africa
How many eyes does an ostrich have?
Two
What is the smallest ostrich species?
The Somali ostrich.
What is the largest ostrich species?
The Common ostrich.
How do ostriches mate?
The male will shake his wings and strut around the female in a circle.
If the female is receptive she will lower her head and allow the male to mount her.
How long does it take for an ostrich egg to hatch?
42 days
Who incubates the eggs?
The female
How many young does an ostrich typically have?
2-4 per clutch
