
Common Ostrich
Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Aves, Order Struthioniformes, Family Struthionidae, Genus Struthio, Species Struthio camelus
Family: Struthionidae (Ostriches)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane with loose, hair-like, flowing barbs and a rounded tip
- Size
- Large feather, estimated at 10 to 14 inches in length, typical of large ostrich body or wing plumes
- Rarity
- Very Common due to widespread commercial farming
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Description
The ostrich is the world's largest living bird, flightless, possessing powerful legs built for incredible running speeds. Its feathers lack the tightly locked vane structure of flying birds, resulting in soft, decorative plumes instead.
Colour & Pattern
Off-white to creamy beige with subtle brownish tones, uniformly colored without distinct banding or patterns
Barb Structure
Plumaceous, extremely loose and hair-like structure lacking functional interlocking barbicels, giving it a fluffy appearance without an afterfeather
Texture & Surface
Very soft, silky, fluffy, and flexible to the touch with a matte appearance
Key Features
Extraordinarily loose, hair-like barbs along a sturdy central shaft with no interlocked pennaceous section, soft creamy-white coloration
Habitat
Open arid and semi-arid plains, savannas, and deserts
Geographic Range
Native to open country and savannahs of Africa, with farmed populations globally
Ecological Role
Acts as an important seed disperser and herbivore in its native African savannah ecosystems
Similar Species
Greater Rhea and Emu feathers, distinguished by subtle differences in color, rachis thickness, and barb texture
Interesting Facts
Ostriches produce the largest eggs of any living bird and can run at speeds up to 43 mph, making them the fastest running birds on land
Condition Notes
Good condition, clean with flexible barbs and intact rachis