Ostriches, the world’s largest birds, are renowned for their impressive stature and remarkable speed. These flightless giants roam various landscapes, from African savannas to semi-desert regions. While they cannot fly, their terrestrial abilities are exceptional, making them one of the fastest animals on land. This capacity for rapid movement is essential for their survival.
Ostrich Speed Records
Ostriches are the fastest running birds globally and the quickest bipedal animals. They can achieve sprint speeds of approximately 40 to 45 miles per hour (64 to 72 kilometers per hour). Some reports suggest short bursts up to 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour).
Beyond their sprint capabilities, ostriches also exhibit endurance. They can maintain sustained speeds of 30 to 37 miles per hour (48 to 60 kilometers per hour) for considerable distances, sometimes for up to 30 to 40 minutes. For perspective, an ostrich could complete a 26-mile marathon in approximately 35 to 40 minutes, significantly faster than the current human marathon record of just over two hours. The fastest human sprinters, like Usain Bolt, reach top speeds around 27 to 28 miles per hour (43 to 45 kilometers per hour), slower than an ostrich’s peak performance.
Built for Velocity
An ostrich’s body is adapted for high-speed locomotion. Their powerful legs are long and muscular, with most muscle mass located high on the thigh and hip, allowing for a long stride and high step frequency. These limbs can cover more than 10 to 16 feet (3 to 5 meters) in a single stride.
Ostriches are unique among birds for having only two toes on each foot, an adaptation for speed. The larger, inner toe bears most of the bird’s weight and features a hoof-like nail, providing traction and propulsion. The smaller, outer toe acts as a stabilizer, aiding balance and maneuverability. Their wings, though not used for flight, play a role in maintaining stability and balance, particularly when running at high speeds or making sharp turns.
Running for Survival
The primary reason ostriches run so fast is for predator evasion. When threatened by predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, or hyenas, their first defense is to flee. Their long stride and efficient energy use allow for sustained high-speed escapes, making them difficult prey to catch.
Ostriches use a unique gait, sometimes described as a “double-suspension gallop,” which enables them to move forward at high velocities. They can also execute sharp turns even at high speeds, using their wings as rudders for steering and balance, essential for evading predators. Their ability to maintain speed over long distances allows them to outrun many predators, who often have less endurance.