OSTRICH
			Phylum: Class: Order: Family: Species: Chordata Aves Struthioniformes Struthionidae Struthio camelus

These aggressive feathered giants are the largest living birds in the world. The male may reach a height of 8.2 feet (2.5 m), of which nearly half is the long neck. Ostriches live on the plains, in the dry regions of Africa, They cannot fly, but their height enables them to see danger approaching. Running to escape, they are able to reach speeds of 37 mph (60 km/h).

The plumage of the male ostrich consists of black and white plumes on the wings and tail. Demand for these plumes once caused a great reduction in numbers. Fortunately, ostrich plumes are no longer in fashion and the ostrich is currently not in immediate danger of being hunted for that purpose. Interestingly, ostriches only have two toes on each foot, compared to four on most birds. This helps them to run quickly.

Ostriches move around in search of food, often in large groups. They feed mainly on fruits, seeds, and leaves, and many get water from plants in arid areas. They are also known to eat small animals, such as lizards and tortoises.

Breeding takes place at nearly any time of year, depending upon the time of the rainy season. They breed around four or five years of age, and are usually polygamous. A male may have as many as five females in his harem. The females lay their eggs in a common nest - a large depression in the ground - which they guard together with the males, sitting on the eggs to shade them from the hot sun. The chicks can run soon after they hatch, and will form large bands when they leave the family group.