Ostrich

The ostrich (Struthio camelus), also known as the common ostrich to distinguish it from other species, is a species of large flightless bird, native to certain large areas in Africa. It is one of the 2 living species of ostriches, as well as the Struthionidae family, the other being the Somali ostrich. It is the largest living bird and laid the largest eggs off any living bird (the extinct elephant birds and giant moa laid larger eggs). They belong to the order, Struthioniformes, which previously contained all ratites, such as emus, rheas, cassowaries, and kiwis. However, recent genetic analysis has found it is not monophyletic, as it is paraphyletic with respect to the tinamous. Therefore, ostriches are now the only members of the order. Its main distinctive appearance is their tall neck and legs. They can run for a long time at a speed for 55 mph with short bursts up to about 70 mph, making it the fastest land speed of any bird. Their diet mainly consists of insects, plant matter, and small reptiles. If threatened, the ostrich would either hide itself by lying flat against the ground or run away. If cornered, it can kick with its powerful legs.