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HOME » PHOTO GALLERY » THE OSTRICH
The Ostrich [struthio camelus] is the larges and heavies 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 meters] tall and weighs up to 345 pounds [156 kgs]. The Ostrich also has the biggest eyeballs of any bird; they are 2 inches [5 cm] across. Eggs The Ostrich lays the biggest eggs in the world; ostrich eggs are 4.5 x 7 inches [11 x 48 cm] across and weigh 3 pounds [1400 g].
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Habitat This bird is native to the dry savannahs of Africa and is well adapted to desert life. Ostriches get water from plants they eat. Diet Ostriches eat mostly plants, but also eat insects, fruits, seeds, nuts and some small animals such as lizards.
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