The ostrich, the world’s largest and heaviest bird, is a flightless species native to Africa that spends its life on the ground in open habitats. Ostriches rarely live in isolation, preferring a social existence that offers numerous advantages in the challenging savanna environment. A single ostrich may stand nearly nine feet tall and weigh up to 340 pounds, but they are most often encountered in collective gatherings. People often ask for the specific name for these groups of large, flightless birds.
The Terminology for Ostrich Groups
A group of ostriches is most commonly referred to as a flock or a herd, particularly in scientific and wildlife observation contexts. “Flock” is a general collective noun used for many bird species, accurately describing the ostrich’s social gathering. “Herd” is also frequently used, reflecting the ostrich’s terrestrial, nomadic nature and large size, which is more akin to a mammal grouping.
Other terms are sometimes used to describe ostrich groups, including pride and drove. “Pride” is often associated with breeding groups, suggesting unified strength and social complexity. While these terms are acceptable, “flock” and “herd” remain the most descriptive terms for their typical gatherings, which can range from a small handful of birds to a hundred or more individuals.
Social Structure and Hierarchy
When ostriches gather, they form a structured social group with a clear pecking order that dictates behavior and resource access. The group is typically led by a dominant male, often referred to as the cock, who establishes and defends the territory. This male associates with a primary female, known as the main hen, who holds the highest social status among the females.
The dominant male is polygamous, mating with the main hen and several other minor hens within the group. Group composition varies seasonally, sometimes consisting of just a breeding pair, but often expanding to 10 to 20 birds, and occasionally up to 50 or more. The hierarchy determines which females are allowed to lay eggs in the communal nest, a shallow depression scraped in the dirt by the male.
Grouping for Defense and Survival
The primary reason ostriches live in groups is for increased defense and survival in their predator-rich environment. Living collectively enhances vigilance, as the group’s many eyes and long necks allow them to spot approaching predators from a greater distance. When danger is sighted, the group can flee at speeds up to 43 miles per hour, or the dominant male may confront the threat directly.
Cooperative behavior is also evident in their breeding and chick-rearing practices. Multiple females lay their eggs in a single communal nest, with the dominant hen ensuring her eggs are placed centrally for protection and incubation. After hatching, the chicks gather in supervised groups called creches, which are watched over by the dominant pair or another designated adult. This collective arrangement maximizes hatching success and minimizes individual risk.