The ostrich lives in a flock ( about 5 to 50 strong). They are usually found amongst grazing animals. They live mainly on plant matter but do take some animal food and can go without water for long periods of time. They are found in the savvanah areas of East Africa and Southern Africa.

The communal nest scraped in the ground can contain from 15 to 60 eggs. The male sits by night and the females take turns during the day. The chicks hatch in about 40days. 

The ostrich's egg averages about 150 mm in length and 125mm in diameter. It weighs upto 1.4kgs. It is the worlds largest egg recorded yet.

The ostrich relies on its uniquely two toed strong legs to escape its enemies. It's main toe is developed almost as a hoof. Its enemies include larger carnivores and man. If cornered an ostrich can deliver powerful kicks.

A frightened ostrich can achieves speeds upto 56 kmh while running. To avoid detection the young, as well sa the adults, lie on the ground with neck outstretched to blend intot he surroundings.

Breeding males emit roars and hisses as they fight for a group of 3 to 5 receptive females. Usual, chirps and moans are also sounds used to communicate amongst the group. 

The male is mostly black and has white plumes in the wings and tail and the females are brown / grey. The heag and most of the neck is reddish to blueish in colour and is lightly downed. The legs are featherless and it posses a powerful thighs. The head is small with short and wide bill and big brown eyes with thick black eye lashes.