The Bird That Can Kill A Lion: 8 Mind Blowing Facts About The Mighty Ostrich You Didn't Know

Largest Living Bird on Earth

Ostriches (Struthio camelus) are the largest and heaviest birds alive today. Their height is up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall and weight is between 100–160 kg (220–350 lbs). Due to their size and weight, they are completely flightless, but their large, muscular legs make them exceptional runners.

World’s Fastest Bird on Land

Ostriches are built for speed and can outrun most predators. Its top speed is 70 km/h (43 mph) and Sustained pace is 50 km/h (31 mph). Their two-toed feet (unusual among birds) allow for a spring-like stride, with a single step reaching up to 5 meters (16 feet).

Lay the Largest Eggs in the Animal Kingdom

Ostrich eggs are giant and tough — weighing about 1.4 to 2.3 kg (3–5 lbs). Length is 15–18 cm (6–7 inches) and Volume is equivalent to 20–25 chicken eggs. Their shells are extremely thick and hard, requiring tools or strength to crack open — traditionally used by tribes for storage containers or ornaments.

They Have the Largest Eyes of Any Land Animal

Each ostrich eye measures about 5 cm (2 inches) in diameter,  bigger than its brain. Their eyes help spot danger from long distances (over 2 km away). Long lashes protect from dust and sand in arid environments.

Small Brain, Big Survival Instincts

Although ostriches have relatively small brains, they’re not as “dumb” as myths suggest. They can recognize predators, navigate terrain, and use group coordination to survive. Males even use distracting tactics (like faking injury) to lure predators away from nests.

Powerful Legs Are Their Best Defense

Each ostrich foot has two toes, with the larger toe sporting a sharp claw that can act like a dagger. A single kick can break bones or kill a predator (including lions). They avoid confrontation but fight fiercely if cornered.

Social Birds with Shared Parenting

Ostriches live in flocks of 5 to 50 birds, led by a dominant male and female. Females lay eggs in a communal nest, with the dominant pair taking turns incubating them. Chicks are cared for in groups and can walk and run shortly after hatching.

Native to Africa but Farmed Worldwide

They are originally native to the savannas and deserts of Africa, ostriches are now also farmed globally for their: Feathers (decorative and dusting), Meat (lean and high in protein), Leather (used in high-end fashion).