Ostrich
Struthio camelus
Did you know?
- The ostrich is part of the Struthionidae family, which is made of only ostriches and extinct species.
- They were once known as the "camel bird."
- They are the largest and heaviest birds in the world.
- Their eggs are the largest eggs in the world, often weighing more than 3 pounds each.
- A female will lay 7 to 10 eggs at a time.
Big Bird
Ostriches are the largest living birds. The males can grow up to 9 feet tall and weigh as much as 350 pounds. Ostriches use their powerful legs to kick attacking predators, or to run away at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.
Better Together
Since they cannot fly, ostriches are forced to nest on the ground, which leaves their eggs more vulnerable to predators. To protect the eggs, females often combine their eggs into a single large nest, which is cared for by the dominant female and her mate.
Threat Level
- Unknown
- Common
- Near Threatened
- Threatened
- Endangered
- Critically Endangered
- Extinct in the Wild
Least Concern
The Ostrich is widespread and abundant.
Range
Africa
Habitat
Savannas, scrublands
we care about ostriches
The Saint Louis Zoo supports this species in the Antelope Habitats at the Zoo. Learn more about how we are helping wildlife around the world.
Find this animal in Red Rocks
SAINT LOUIS ZOO ZONE
Red Rocks
At Red Rocks, you’ll view some of the world’s most powerful predators living near some of the world’s most graceful prey. Lions, tigers, zebra and giraffes all share the natural rocky boulders and outcroppings as their territory. With shading trees and a bird or two among the mammals, Red Rocks is a great place to spend a day at the Saint Louis Zoo.