Ostrich Fun for Kids

The Ostrich is the biggest bird in the world! Even though it can’t fly, it runs super fast and has very strong legs. Ostriches are known for their long necks, big round eyes, and fluffy feathers. They live in dry, warm places and are full of surprises!

Watch an Ostrich in Action!

See how fast and funny Ostriches can be in real life. They love to run and explore their surroundings!

What is an Ostrich?

An Ostrich is a large, flightless bird that lives in Africa. It has long legs, a long neck, and big eyes to help it see far away.

• Ostriches are birds, but they can’t fly
• They are the tallest and heaviest birds on Earth
• They have fluffy feathers and tiny wings
• They can run faster than most animals on land

Where do Ostriches live?

Ostriches live in hot, dry places like deserts and savannas in Africa. These areas give them lots of space to run and find food.

• Found mostly in countries across Africa
• Live in grasslands, deserts, and open woodlands
• They make nests on the ground to lay eggs

What do Ostriches eat?

Ostriches are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and small animals. They use their beaks to peck at food on the ground.

• Grass, seeds, and fruits
• Insects like beetles and grasshoppers
• Sometimes small animals or lizards

How big is an Ostrich?

Ostriches are as tall as a grown-up and weigh as much as a large dog!

• Can grow up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall
• Weigh up to 320 pounds (145 kilograms)
• Eggs are the biggest of any bird—about the size of a soccer ball!

What sound do Ostriches make?

Ostriches make deep, booming sounds and loud hisses. Sometimes they even roar like lions to scare other animals!

Cool Ostrich Facts

Ostriches have lots of fun and interesting features that make them one of the coolest animals starting with A!

• Ostriches can run up to 45 miles per hour (72 kilometers per hour)
• They have only two toes on each foot
• One Ostrich egg can feed several people
• They have super strong legs that can kick really hard
• Ostriches blink with long eyelashes
• Their eyes are bigger than their brains
• They live in groups called herds
• Ostriches have been around since the time of dinosaurs
• They can survive without water for several days
• Ostriches sometimes dance to show off

Printables and coloring fun

Have fun learning about Ostriches with coloring pages and games!

• Download Ostrich Coloring Page (PDF)

Ostriches in the eco-system

Ostriches help nature by spreading seeds and being part of the food chain. They are not endangered, but still need protection.

• Help spread seeds that grow new plants
• Are prey for lions and cheetahs
• Population is stable, but protected in some places
• Farms raise Ostriches for their feathers and eggs

Ask a grown-up to help you learn more

With help from an adult, you can explore even more about Ostriches on these trusted websites:

• National Geographic Kids: Ostrich Facts
• Britannica: Ostrich | Habitat, Food, & Facts
• A-Z Animals: Ostrich

Fun questions about Ostriches

Ways to donate and support Ostriches

You can help protect Ostriches and their homes by learning more and supporting organizations that care for animals and their habitats.

Donate or Get Involved with Ostrich Protection at African Wildlife Foundation