O is for Ostrich! Flightless and toothless, these
African natives are the largest living birds in the world! Built for running,
they can reach speeds of up to 43 mph and maintain a speed of 31 mph.
When
threatened they’d just as soon run, but their powerful legs have a kick that
can actually kill a human or a predator. Without benefit of teeth for chewing
they swallow pebbles to grind up the food they eat. The Ostrich have the largest eyes of any land
animal and three sets of eyelids, shaded by heavy long lashes. They can go
without water for several days and enjoy an occasional bath.
Parent
Ostrich are extremely protective and will sometimes engage other parents in a winner
takes all (the young) duel!
The Ostrich
was nearly extinct in the late eighteenth century but is now classified as a ‘species
of least concern’. However, their numbers are declining due to the popularity
of their feathers, hide, meat and eggs.
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| Picacho Peak, Arizona |
In case you’re
wondering why in the world I would talk about a bird that is not an Arizona
native, well it’s because we proudly boast one of the most popular roadside
attractions in America! Rooster Cogburn’s Ostrich Ranch is located
just off I-10 near the community of Picacho, Arizona. The third generation owners have expanded the
modest ranch into a “tour around the world in one place” with engaging,
hands-on exhibits such as the Rainbow Lorikeet Forest and (my personal favorite!) Prairie Dog Town, USA.
Any notable roadside
attractions in your area?
I had no idea about the winner take all the young thing! Nice post. I've always thought that ostriches were cool creatures :)
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that either, until I researched for this blog. I think they're cool, too!
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