Freie Natur? Neues manatimagazin® erschienen
Wieviel Wildnis wollen wir als Gesellschaft zulassen? Wo treffen wir noch auf Natur? Und warum geht es im Artenschutz nicht um Schönheit? Diesen und...
No head in the sand
The flightless South African Ostrich is the largest living bird species. Their long neck and sharp vision help detect enemies. In imminent danger, they escape with the help of their powerful legs. The South African Ostrich can reach speeds of up to 65 km/h.
During mating season, the rooster is "polygomous". He lives with a main hen and several side-hens, which lay their eggs in a common nest. The cock takes care of up to 20 eggs in a clutch. The dominant main hen scares off her rivals.
Scientific Surname | Struthio camelus australis |
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Order | Ratites |
Family | Struthionidae |
Size | till 2,5 m |
Weight | till 150 kg |
Reproduction | breeding period: 44 days, 6-8 eggs (till 1,6 kg) |
Distribution | South Africa |
Habitat | steppes, savannah, semi-desert |
Food | predominantly plants, Insects, small mammals |
Livestock | not endangered |