Definition:

(noun) The scientific bird family classification that includes all ostriches. There are only two species in this family, but they are occasionally lumped together into a single species. Endemic to Africa, these birds were also once found in parts of the Arabian peninsula, but have been extirpated from that region and are now exclusive to the African continent. Though the wild species have that restricted range, there are many domestic and hybrid ostriches raised commercially on farms around the world, and escaped birds may be seen in many places.


Ostriches are incredibly distinct and easily recognizable for many of their unique features, including:

• Impressive size as the tallest and heaviest living wild birds in the world
• Omnivorous diet that includes carrion and a variety of animal and vegetable materials
• Long, bare, powerful legs capable of running up to 50 miles per hour in a sprint
• Long, thin neck covered with sparse down and supporting a surprisingly small head
• Polygamous breeding habits that include egg dumping and cooperative breeding
• Stunted wings incapable of flight, but still useful as rudders while running and also used in courtship displays, aggressive postures and to shade young from excessive heat

The two species of Struthionidae birds are the common ostrich and the Somali ostrich, though the latter is not always recognized as a separate species. There are various other subspecies distinguished by geography, size, skin color and plumage variations.

Pronunciation:

STREWT-eye-nih-deye or STREW-theye-nih-day

Also Known As:

Ostriches

Photo – Somali Ostrich © JULIAN MASON