The ostrich is a LARGE bird and their legs reflect that size. According to The Ostrich Farm website “An ostrich’s legs are about 2.8 m (9.2 ft) long – the longest of any bird’s.” 2 That’s almost as tall as an average human!
The length of an ostrich’s legs also allows them to run VERY fast. In fact they are “the world’s fastest land bird capable of sustained speeds close to 70 km/h (43 mph).” 3 This means that they can outrun most predators as well as humans.
If you think about it the length of an ostrich’s legs is really quite amazing! But how did they evolve to be so long?
According to an article in The Conversation “The legs of ostriches – and other long-legged birds such as storks – are unusually long in proportion to their bodies because they contain more “skeletal blocks” or segments than other birds.” 4 This means that their bones are shorter and their joint angles are wider which allows for a greater range of motion.
The article goes on to say that this evolutionary adaptation is likely due to the fact that ostriches live in open habitats where they need to be able to cover large distances quickly. This is definitely an advantage when it comes to escaping predators or finding food!
So there you have it! The next time you see an ostrich take a moment to appreciate their long legs – they are truly amazing!
References:
1. https://www.theostrichfarm.com/about-ostriches/
2. https://www.theostrichfarm.com/about-ostriches/
3. https://www.theconversation.com/explainer-why-are-ostriches-legs-so-long-39221
4. https://www.theconversation.com/explainer-why-are-ostriches-legs-so-long-39221
How long are ostrich legs?
Answer: Ostrich legs can grow to be over two meters in length.
How do ostrich legs compare to other bird legs?
Answer: Ostrich legs are much longer and stronger than other bird legs.
What are ostrich legs used for?
Answer: Ostrich legs are used for running and kicking.
How fast can an ostrich run?
Answer: Ostriches can run up to 70 kilometers per hour.
What is the longest recorded ostrich leg length?
Answer: The longest recorded ostrich leg length is 2.
34 meters.
How do ostrich legs help the ostrich to run so fast?
Answer: Ostrich legs have long powerful muscles that help them to run quickly.
What other adaptations do ostrich legs have for running?
Answer: Ostrich legs have two toes pointing forwards and two toes pointing backwards which helps them to run quickly and evenly.
How do ostrich legs help the ostrich to kick?
Answer: Ostrich legs are very powerful and can deliver a powerful kick.
What do ostrich legs help the ostrich to do besides run and kick?
Answer: Ostrich legs also help the ostrich to balance when walking and standing.
Do all birds have long legs like ostriches?
Answer: No not all birds have long legs like ostriches.
Do any other animals have long legs like ostriches?
Answer: Some other animals such as giraffes and gazelles have long legs like ostriches.
Why do ostriches have such long legs?
Answer: Ostriches have long legs to help them run quickly and cover long distances.
What would happen if an ostrich didn’t have long legs?
Answer: If an ostrich didn’t have long legs it would not be able to run as fast or cover as much ground.
Do long legs make it easier for ostriches to get around?
Answer: Yes long legs help ostriches to cover a lot of ground quickly.
What other benefits do long legs provide for ostriches?
Answer: Long legs also help ostriches to balance when walking and standing.
