Quick answer
Ostrichs (Struthio camelus) are birds found across Africa. The largest and fastest bird on land. Adults typically weigh 63–130 kg (140–290 lb), reach speeds of 70 km/h (43 mph) on foot, and live 40–45 years in the wild. They feed on omnivore (mostly plants) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The savannas, semi-deserts, and open plains of sub-Saharan Africa.
Key takeaway
Ostrichs (Struthio camelus) are birds found across Africa. The largest and fastest bird on land. Adults typically weigh 63–130 kg (140–290 lb), reach speeds of 70 km/h (43 mph) on foot, and live 40–45 years in the wild. They feed on omnivore (mostly plants) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The savannas, semi-deserts, and open plains of sub-Saharan Africa.
Ostrich overview
Ostrich (Struthio camelus) is an bird listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight 63–130 kg (140–290 lb); lifespan around 40–45 years in the wild.
Ostrich ecology
Diet: Omnivore (mostly plants). Habitat: Savanna, semi-desert, open plains. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Ostrichs and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild ostrichs are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Ostrich profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Ostriches inhabit The savannas, semi-deserts, and open plains of sub-Saharan Africa. Their preferred habitat includes savanna, semi-desert, open plains, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Africa.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult ostriches typically measure about 2.8 m in length and weigh 63–130 kg (140–290 lb). They can sprint at 70 km/h (43 mph) on foot when hunting or escaping predators. Ostrichs are known for the largest and fastest bird on land — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Ostrich FAQs
What are key facts about ostrichs?
Ostrichs (Struthio camelus) are birds found across Africa. The largest and fastest bird on land. Adults typically weigh 63–130 kg (140–290 lb), reach speeds of 70 km/h (43 mph) on foot, and live 40–45 years in the wild. They feed on omnivore (mostly plants) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The savannas, semi-deserts, and open plains of sub-Saharan Africa.
What is the scientific name of the ostrich?
Struthio camelus — used in research and conservation listings for ostrichs.
What do ostrichs eat?
Ostrichs eat mostly plants, with seasonal and regional variation in Savanna, semi-desert, open plains.
Where do ostrichs live?
They are associated with Savanna, semi-desert, open plains. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of ostrichs?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.