# Common Ostrich

> Discover the Common Ostrich, the largest living bird on Earth and one of Africa's most iconic wildlife species. Known for its towering height, powerful legs, and incredible running speed, the Common Ostrich dominates the open savannahs and grasslands of Africa. Although flightless, it can outrun most predators and is famous for producing the largest eggs of any living bird. Encountering these magnificent birds on safari is a memorable experience and offers a fascinating glimpse into one of nature's most extraordinary evolutionary success stories.

- **Type:** animal
- **Canonical URL:** https://imaraafricasafaris.com//wildlife/common-ostrich
- **Last updated:** 2026-06-23

## Key facts
- **Scientific Name:** Struthio camelus
- **Habitat:** Open savanna, grasslands
- **Diet:** omnivore
- **Sighting Chance:** Very Common
- **Best Time To See:** all season

## Details

The Common Ostrich ( Struthio camelus ) is the largest bird on Earth and one of Africa's most remarkable wildlife species. Standing taller than most humans and weighing over 150 kilograms, the ostrich is a true giant of the African plains.

Despite possessing wings, ostriches cannot fly. Instead, they have evolved powerful legs capable of carrying them at incredible speeds across open landscapes. Their long strides and endurance make them among the fastest animals in Africa.

Male Common Ostriches are easily recognized by their striking black plumage accented with white wing and tail feathers, while females display more subdued grey-brown coloring that helps camouflage them while nesting.

Ostriches are highly social birds and are often found in small groups or mixed herds alongside zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes. Their excellent eyesight allows them to detect predators from long distances, benefiting other animals that share their habitat.

As omnivores, Common Ostriches feed on grasses, seeds, flowers, fruits, insects, and small animals. They swallow small stones that help grind food inside their muscular stomachs since they lack teeth.

One of the ostrich's most remarkable features is its egg. Ostrich eggs are the largest of any living bird and can weigh over 1.5 kilograms. Several females may lay eggs in a communal nest, which is guarded by a dominant male and female.

For safari travelers, seeing a Common Ostrich striding across the savannah or witnessing its powerful running ability is one of Africa's classic wildlife experience

## Frequently asked questions

### What is a Common Ostrich?
The Common Ostrich is the world's largest living bird and a flightless species native to Africa.

### Where can I see Common Ostriches in Africa?
They are commonly seen in Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Amboseli, Tsavo, Tarangire, and Etosha National Park.

### How many Common Ostriches are left in the wild?
Several hundred thousand wild individuals remain across Africa, with over 2 million including farmed populations.

### How fast can a Common Ostrich run?
It can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h (43 mph).

### What do Common Ostriches eat?
They eat grasses, seeds, fruits, insects, flowers, and small animals.

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