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| More Information on Birds | EnchantedLearning.com Ostrich Struthio camelus |
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The ostrich is the largest and heaviest bird. It is also the fastest-running bird; it can run up to 43 mph (70 kph). It can outrun most predators, but can also kick to protect itself. Ostriches cannot fly. They have a life span of up to 40 years in captivity.
Anatomy: The ostrich can grow up to 9 feet (2.7 m) tall and weighs up to 345 pounds (156 kg). The ostrich also has the biggest eyeballs of any bird; they are 2 inches (5 cm) across.
Eggs: The ostrich lays the biggest egg in the world; ostrich eggs are 4.5 x 7 inches (11 x 18 cm) across and weigh 3 pounds (1400 g).
Habitat: This bird is native to the dry savannas of Africa and are well adapted to desert life. Ostriches get water from the plants they eat.
Diet: Ostriches eat mostly plants, but also eat insects, fruits, seeds, nuts, and some small animals (like lizards).
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