Ostrich

Terrestrial Bird

This terrestrial bird is flightless and the largest of all the bird species living today. The Ostrich exhibits dimorphism – females are gray and brown and males are black.

Communal Nests

Ostriches form flocks of up to 50 individuals. Smaller flocks of two to six individuals form outside of the breeding season. Male Ostriches are territorial and each manage a group of females. Once the breeding group is sorted out, a shallow, communal nest may be utilized with 15-60 eggs. Both the male and females share responsibility for laying on the nest — with the male typically guarding the nest in the evenings.

Full-time Herbivore, Part-time Carnivore

Ostrich are typically herbivores. They have a diet comprised of plant material, seeds and flowers. They have been observed consuming locust, along with parts of carrion after predators have finished a carcass.