Dimorphic Ostrich by Ghirin

Dimorphic Ostrich Author: Ghirin

The ostrich is the largest living bird. Adult males can stand up to nine feet tall and weigh up to 345 pounds, while females are somewhat smaller. Males have black plumage with white wing and tail plumes; females are dull grayish brown in color. Ostriches have small heads poised on long, mobile necks. Their bills are broad and flat. Their two-inch panoramic eyes provide these birds with excellent eyesight. Their eyes are actually larger than their brains. Ostriches have bare legs and are unique among birds in having only two forward-pointing toes. Possessing extremely advanced immune systems, mature ostriches are very robust birds and have a lifespan of about 50 years both in and out of the wild. Ostriches do very well in captivity.

In the wild, the ostrich is almost exclusively found in the dry savannah regions of Africa. These birds prefer flat, open areas with low rainfall. Ostriches get water from the plants they eat and can go without water for long periods of time. However, they are very fond of water and will take baths when given the chance.

Created by Ghirin 2003

Updated 2010-11-21

Just to save space with less in zip and smaller image.

Nothing new.