Ostriches may not be able to fly, but they loom large in the bird kingdom. They are the world’s tallest and heaviest living birds, and they lay the largest eggs. With their long legs, ostriches are also fleet of foot, running up to 43 miles per hour, and formidable fighters—an ostrich kick can kill. But since the beginning of history, these extraordinary and outlandish birds have also been exploited by humans for their eggs, meat, skin, and feathers. In Ostrich, Edgar Williams provides a singular, comprehensive insight into the natural history, behavior, and habitat of this monumental bird. Williams describes how the demand for ostrich feathers was so great during the Victorian era that vast fortunes were made from ostrich farming, particularly in South Africa and the United States. After fashions changed following World War I, farmers lost their fortunes, but the now domesticated ostrich found a new purpose—today, ostrich farmers produce plumes and leather for luxury markets, as well as meat for grocery stores. In addition to telling its, Williams reveals how the ostrich has been featured in culture, from its representations in cave paintings, medieval manuscripts, and the Bayeux tapestry to its use in advertising and cartoons. Featuring many striking illustrations, Ostrich will interest nature lovers, artists, and fashionistas alike.

Hummingbirds are among the smallest birds in the world but they make up for their small size with unique talents and fearless flying. Ostriches are the world's largest bird, reaching up to 9 feet tall, weighing over 300 pounds, and able to run 40 miles per hour. Learn all about hummingbirds and ostriches in this book, their behaviors, their activities, and how they compare and interact with other birds and animals in nature. Color photographs capture the beauty and personality of these amazing birds. This book is a great learning and teaching resource for kids 8 to 80, providing a view into the world of birds as it intersects with ours. This is one of the "A Bird Book for Kids(TM)" series of books by Novare Lawrence whose passion is bringing our attention to the natural world and the creatures in it and especially to inspire kids and young adults to experience and appreciate nature firsthand.

See what an ostrich has in common with a secretary bird. Learn what sets an ostrich apart from a merlin. Readers will compare key traits of ostriches—their appearance, behavior, habitat, and life cycle—to traits of other birds. Charts and sidebars support key ideas and provide details. Through gathering information about similarities and differences, readers will make connections and draw conclusions about what makes this animal a bird and how birds are alike and different from each other.

Growing up to 9 feet tall and weighing up to 350 pounds, ostriches are the biggest and heaviest birds in the world. Although they can't fly, they can run at staggering speeds up to 43 miles per hour. They can cover up to 16 feet in a single bound! Their long, strong legs and two-toed, sharp-clawed feet make them formidable adversaries. With this exciting book, readers will learn about the ecological importance of the ostrich, as well as its habitat, behavior, diet, and life cycle.

Cheetahs and ostriches can definitely fend for themselves in their native Africa. Cheetahs have incredible speed; they're the fastest land animals. Ostriches are the largest birds, but they also have a kick so deadly it's been known to kill lions. What might happen if these two beasts squared off is anyone's guess. Both are equipped to do some damage. Readers can decide which they think would be the victor using the exciting information and vivid action photographs they'll find on each page of this engaging volume.

Find out where the world's heaviest flying bird lives, how it stays safe from enemies, and how the young learn to fly.