Ostriches are the largest and heaviest of all living birds but they are also the fastest able to reach speeds of up to 70 km/h (45 mph). This is thanks to their long powerful legs. Each of an ostrich’s legs is about the same length as its body and the largest ostrich egg ever found weighed nearly 16 pounds!
While an ostrich’s legs are its biggest asset when it comes to running they are not the only thing that helps. The ostrich also has two toes on each foot instead of the more common four which gives it extra stability and traction. Additionally its wings are small and weak but they are still used to help the ostrich balance while running.
So what exactly makes an ostrich so fast? It is a combination of its long legs two-toed feet and wings that help to keep it balanced. With all of these things working together the ostrich can reach some impressive speeds!
What is the top speed an ostrich can run?
Ostriches can run up to 43 mph.
How do ostriches run so fast?
They have long powerful legs and can take strides up to 16 feet long.
What other adaptations help ostriches run fast?
Their wings help them balance and change directions quickly.
How does the ostrich’s body help it run?
Their bodies are lightweight and their breastbone is hollow to reduce weight.
What is the ostrich’s main predator?
In the wild their main predators are lions leopards and cheetahs.
How do they avoid predators?
By running fast and zig-zagging they are able to avoid most predators.
What is the ostrich’s natural habitat?
Ostriches live in Africa in savannas woodlands and deserts.
What do ostriches eat?
Ostriches are herbivores and their diet consists of plants and fruit.
How much water do ostriches need to survive?
Ostriches can go without water for long periods of time and get the moisture they need from the plants they eat.
How long can ostriches live?
In the wild ostriches can live up to 40 years.
How many eggs does an ostrich lay?
Ostriches can lay up to 3 eggs at a time.
How big are ostrich eggs?
Ostrich eggs are the largest of all eggs measuring up to 15 inches long and weighing up to 5 pounds.
How long does it take for an ostrich egg to hatch?
It takes 42 days for an ostrich egg to hatch.
What is the incubation period for an ostrich egg?
The incubation period is the time it takes for an egg to hatch and is usually between 28 and 32 days.
What is the hatching temperature for an ostrich egg?
The hatching temperature for an ostrich egg is between 92 and 96 degrees Fahrenheit.
