Ostriches are large flightless birds that are native to Africa. They are the only member of the genus Struthio which is in the family Struthionidae. Ostriches are omnivorous eating both plants and animals.
Ostriches are vertebrates meaning they have a backbone. Their skeletons are similar to those of other birds but they have some unique features. For example ostriches have only two toes on each foot while most birds have four. Ostriches also have the largest eyes of any land vertebrate.
The ostrich is the largest living bird. Males can grow to be over 2.1 meters (7 feet) tall and weigh up to 156 kilograms (345 pounds). Females are usually a bit smaller growing to around 1.8 meters (6 feet) tall and weighing around 90 kilograms (200 pounds).
Ostriches are fast runners and can reach speeds of up to 70 kilometers (43 miles) per hour. They are also excellent swimmers.
Despite their size and power ostriches are timid birds and will usually run away from threats. If they are cornered they will sometimes fight back with their powerful legs. These kicks can be dangerous and have been known to kill lions and other large predators.
The ostrich is the national bird of Sudan.
Is an ostrich a vertebrate or invertebrate?
Vertebrate
What is the difference between a vertebrate and an invertebrate?
Vertebrates have a backbone while invertebrates do not.
How many vertebrae does a human have?
Humans have 33 vertebrae.
How many vertebrae does a giraffe have?
giraffes have 7 vertebrae.
How many vertebrae does a snake have?
snakes have 400-500 vertebrae.
What is the smallest vertebrate?
The smallest vertebrate is a frog measuring just 1 cm.
What is the largest vertebrate?
The largest vertebrate is the Blue Whale measuring in at 30 m.
What animals are vertebrates?
All mammals reptiles amphibians birds and fish are vertebrates.
What animals are invertebrates?
Invertebrates include all animals that are not vertebrates such as insects spiders and octopuses.
Do all animals have a backbone?
No only vertebrates have a backbone.
What is the main function of a backbone?
The backbone protects the spinal cord.
How does having a backbone help an animal?
Having a backbone helps an animal because it gives the animal support and allows the animal to move.
What would happen if an animal did not have a backbone?
If an animal did not have a backbone it would not be able to move as easily and would be more susceptible to injury.
What is the difference between a mammal and a reptile?
Mammals are warm-blooded while reptiles are cold-blooded.
What is the difference between a bird and a fish?
Fish live in water while birds live on land.
