According to a 2017 report there have been at least 37 human deaths associated with ostriches since 1990. The report which was published in the African Journal of Wildlife Research notes that most of the victims were farm workers who were killed while trying to catch or slaughter the birds.
The report’s authors say that the number of deaths is likely higher than what’s been documented as many cases go unreported. They believe the number of fatalities could be even higher as the African continent does not have a centralized reporting system for animal-related deaths.
While the report does not definitively say why ostriches are killing people the authors speculate that the birds may be reacting to stress or fear. They also note that many of the incidents occurred when the ostriches were being handled roughly or during the slaughter process.
The report’s authors say that more research is needed to understand why ostriches are attacking people. In the meantime they recommend that farm workers take precautions when handling the birds such as using gloves and avoiding loud noises.
What is the world’s largest living bird?
The ostrich is the world’s largest living bird.
How much can an ostrich weigh?
Ostriches weigh between 140 and 210 pounds.
What is the height of an ostrich?
Ostriches are between 6 and 9 feet tall.
What does an ostrich eat?
Ostriches eat seeds plants insects and lizards.
Where do ostriches live?
Ostriches live in Africa.
How many eggs does an ostrich lay?
Ostriches can lay between 10 and 20 eggs at a time.
How long does it take an ostrich egg to hatch?
It takes an ostrich egg 42 days to hatch.
How fast can an ostrich run?
Ostriches can run up to 40 miles per hour.
What is the lifespan of an ostrich?
Ostriches can live up to 30 years in captivity.
Are ostriches endangered?
Ostriches are not currently endangered.
What is the largest ostrich egg on record?
The largest ostrich egg on record weighed 12 pounds and 9.
5 ounces.
How much does the average ostrich egg weigh?
The average ostrich egg weighs 3 pounds.
What is the average lifespan of an ostrich in the wild?
The average lifespan of an ostrich in the wild is 20 years.
What are the predators of ostriches?
Ostriches are preyed upon by lions leopards cheetahs and hyenas.
Do ostriches have teeth?
No ostriches do not have teeth.
