Common Ostrich

The Ostrich is the largest species of bird in the world, weighing up to 145kg (320lbs) and 2.8m (9ft 2in) in height. Although flightless, it can run at speeds of 55km/h (34mph), sometimes faster, making it the fastest of all birds on land. The species displays distinct sexual dimorphism, with males being primarily black with white wing- and tail-feathers and the females being brown all over. Other notable features include its large eyes, said to be the largest of any land vertebrate, and its two-toed feet, unique among birds.

Ostriches are native to the savannahs of Africa. They are mainly herbivores, eating seeds and grass, but will occasionally eat insects. A male ostrich will mate with multiple females, who will in turn lay all their eggs in a single nest. The male and a single "major" female will then take turns incubating the eggs and raising the young once they hatch, with the major female's eggs being kept in the centre of the nest. It is believed that the act of moving the eggs in the nest led to the belief that ostriches bury their heads in the sand to avoid predators.