Ostrich

Struthio camelus

The ostrich, Struthio camelus, is the largest living bird, an African ratite with a long neck, powerful legs, two-toed feet, and wings used for balance and display rather than flight. Wild ostriches live in open savanna and semi-arid landscapes, where they graze, browse, and take seeds, insects, and small animals as available. Their large eggs, fast running speed, and strong kicks make them very different from domestic poultry in both biology and handling risk.

Ostriches are raised on some farms for meat, leather, feathers, eggs, breeding stock, or visitor education, but they require purpose-built facilities. Secure fencing, dry footing, shade, mineral-balanced feed, chick brooding skill, and low-stress handling systems are basic needs. Adult birds can injure people, especially during breeding season, so casual backyard setups are a poor fit. Operations also need clear records for pairings, hatch dates, health treatment, transport, and any local livestock or wildlife requirements.