Ostriches are truly unique and amazing animals – note I use the word animals instead of birds.  They are of course birds but unlike any other bird in the world.

All flying birds have four toes on each foot – part of the reason is to grab prey/food better. All flightless birds have three toes on each foot. Think of Penguins and ducks as easy examples. All the other members of the same family the ostrich belongs to also of course have three toes on each foot. Ratitae family which includes the Emu, Kiwi and cassowary.

The ostrich is so unique that you can not even compare them to their own family since they are the only birds in the world with two toes. One very big toe to carry the weight of the bird and small toe for balance.  Ostriches weigh up to 180kg and can run at speeds of up to 80km/h – this they achieve on two toes!

Visit us at Safari Ostrich Farm for a guided tour where we will share with you their many other unique attributes.