Ostriches, the largest birds in the world, are known for their size and remarkable athletic abilities. While they cannot fly, these magnificent creatures possess an extraordinary capacity for speed on land. Their powerful legs and unique physical adaptations allow them to navigate their vast habitats with impressive swiftness.
The Ostrich’s Speed
Ostriches are the fastest birds on land, reaching sprint speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour (43 miles per hour). Their reliably measured top speed is 61 km/h (38 mph). Beyond sprinting, ostriches demonstrate significant endurance, maintaining speeds of 48 to 60 kilometers per hour (30 to 37 miles per hour) for 30 to 40 minutes. This combination of speed and sustained pace allows them to cover over 5 meters (16 feet) in a single stride.
Built for Running
The ostrich’s specialized anatomy directly contributes to its speed. Their long, powerful legs make up a significant portion of their body. Muscle mass concentrated high on the thigh and hip keeps the lower leg light. This arrangement enables a long stride and high step frequency, maximizing running efficiency.
Ostriches possess only two toes on each foot. The larger, inner toe features a substantial claw that functions like a hoof, providing propulsion and grip. This reduced number of toes minimizes weight and friction, contributing to efficient movement and better shock absorption. Their large wings, though incapable of flight, serve as important stabilizers. When running at high speeds, ostriches extend their wings to aid in balance, steering, and braking, allowing for sharp turns and precise maneuvering.
Why Speed Matters
The ostrich’s speed is an adaptation for survival in its natural environment. As prey animals in African habitats, they face threats from predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Their main defense is to run fast and far, often outrunning these hunters.
This rapid locomotion also allows ostriches to traverse vast distances across arid plains and savannas. This ability is important for locating dispersed food sources and finding water, which are often scarce in their natural range. Covering significant ground helps them thrive in challenging ecological conditions.
How Ostriches Compare
Ostriches hold a distinct position among fast land animals. They are the fastest two-legged animals on Earth. While a cheetah can reach higher top speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour) in short bursts, the ostrich’s ability to maintain high speed for a longer duration is significant.
Other fast land animals, like the pronghorn, can achieve speeds up to 97 kilometers per hour (60 miles per hour). However, ostriches sustain their running pace for much longer periods than many sprinters. This combination of explosive acceleration and sustained endurance places the ostrich among the top runners in the animal kingdom.