The ostrich (Struthio camelus) is the world’s largest and heaviest living bird, native to the open savannahs, grasslands, and semi-desert regions of Africa. Despite being flightless, it is exceptionally well adapted to life on the plains, with long, powerful legs built for speed and endurance. Adult ostriches typically stand about 2.1–2.8 m (7–9 ft) tall and can weigh between 90–150 kg (200–330 lb), with males generally larger and more boldly colored than females. Their distinctive black-and-white plumage in males, gray-brown feathers in females, and long necks and legs make them instantly recognizable at great distances.
Ostriches are social birds, often seen in small groups or mixed herds alongside grazing mammals. Breeding involves a communal nesting system, with a dominant female laying eggs alongside several others in a single nest. The incubation period lasts about 42 days, after which highly developed chicks hatch, capable of walking and feeding shortly after birth. Ostriches rely on keen eyesight and powerful kicks for defense, making them formidable despite their lack of flight.
Photography Tips:
For photographers on safari, ostriches offer striking subjects due to their size, patterns, and behavior. Wide-angle lenses work well to emphasize their height against expansive landscapes, while longer lenses are ideal for capturing head details, feathers, and interactions within a group. Early morning and late afternoon light help soften contrast on their plumage and highlight texture, creating strong, graphic images of this iconic African bird.
