Ostrich

Struthio camelus

The Ostrich is the world's tallest (nearly 3 metres high), heaviest and most dangerous bird. It can run at 70 kph and has a powerful kick and slash with its toe claw. It comes from the open savannahs of north, south, east and parts of west Africa. The male has black body plumage and the female grey (above right), both with white wing tips and a white tail or, in the sub-species above, a buff tail.

The unfeathered neck is grey or pink depending on sub-species which varies by region. Unlike other ratites, they have only two toes to enable faster running. They also have other anatomical differences unique among birds (and more akin to mammals/reptiles). Unlike the Emu and Rhea, both male and dominant female incubate the eggs (hens by day on communal nest and males by night) and raise the chicks. The Ostrich will use its small (relative to bird) wings to expand its body to appear larger and threatening -- looking like it is wearing a tutu (above).
The juveniles' plumage and neck are wholly grey. They also learn to spread their wings in a threatening posture.

   Other Ratites:

Emu

Greater/American Rhea

Darwin's/Lesser Rhea

Southern Cassowary

Northern Cassowary