Which is the Largest Bird in the World?

Whenever we think of a bird, we imagine a small and petite creature mid-flight in the air, graciously flapping its wings with a melodious voice. But in reality, not all birds fit the traditional notions we might have regarding birds in our heads. A lot of creatures in this world do not look like they can be called birds based on their outer appearance and characteristics. Only after considerable probing do we realise that birds can come in all shapes and sizes, features, colours, voices, and other parameters. Let us find out which is the largest bird in the world. 

The Largest Bird in the World 

The common Ostrich is the largest bird in the world. The ostrich has its origin in Africa. It cannot fly in the sky like most birds are expected to. Adult males can grow up to 9 feet or 2.7 meters tall and weigh around 150 kilograms or 330 pounds. Females are slightly smaller in comparison, but still massive compared to other bird species. Even though they are small in size, ostriches are incredibly fast runners, capable of reaching speeds of up to 70 km per hour or 43 mph. Their long, muscular legs are not only built for speed but also for defense. A powerful kick from an ostrich can be lethal.

Ostriches have evolved in ways that make them perfectly suited to life on the ground rather than air. They have large eyes, which are the biggest of any land vertebrate. This provides them with excellent vision, helping them detect predators from far away. Ostriches also have a unique two-toed foot structure, which aids them in swift running and balance on the open savannahs where they live.

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Key Features

• Ostriches are curious in nature. They tend to live in groups among each other, which offers protection against predators. Their diet is mainly made up of plants, seeds, and occasionally insects, making them omnivorous. Ostriches also swallow small stones, which help grind and digest their food.
• The mating system of ostriches is quite fascinating and peculiar. During the breeding season, males perform elaborate courtship dances to attract females. After mating, the dominant female lays her eggs in a communal nest, which is a simple pit in the ground. Each egg produced by the ostrich is enormous. It weighs about 1.4 kilograms or 3 pounds. 
• The egg of the ostrich is the largest egg of any living land animal. Both parents often take turns incubating the eggs until they hatch after around 42 days.
• For ages, ostriches have held significant value to humans. Their feathers were once considered luxurious fashion accessories, and today, ostriches are farmed for their meat, leather, and feathers. Ostrich farming has become popular in various parts of the world due to the bird’s fast growth and high-value products.

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