Species Overview

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Struthioniformes

Family: Struthionidae

Genus: Struthio

Species: Struthio camelus

Life Span: 40–45 years (in the wild)

Weight: 90–160 kg (198–352 lbs)

Height: 2.1–2.8 meters (6.9–9.2 feet)

Animal Behavior and Habits

Activity: Diurnal – active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.

Feeding Habits: Omnivores – feed on a variety of plants, seeds, leaves, and small invertebrates. They also consume pebbles to aid digestion.

Social Structure: Live in loose, nomadic groups of 5–50 individuals. Males form harems during breeding season.

Hunting Approach: Rarely hunted directly, but often pursued for feathers, eggs, and meat; usually hunted in open plains or near waterholes.

Habitat and Environment

Preferred Habitat: Open savannas, deserts, and semi-arid regions with grasslands and sparse trees.

Water Sources: Found near water sources, but can go without water for extended periods by absorbing moisture from food.

Best Hunting Locations: Open plains, deserts, and savannas. They often roost in the shade of trees or shrubs.

Tracks and Trails: Large, round tracks with two toes; deep impressions in soft soil or sand.

Signs: Look for large nests, broken eggs, and feather remnants near roosting areas.

Hunting Time

Ideal Hunting Times: Early morning or late afternoon when they are most active.

Breeding Season: Typically during the rainy season (November–April), with males becoming more aggressive and territorial.

Trophy Quality: Not typically hunted for trophies, but their eggs and feathers can be valuable. Males with large, colorful plumes are prized for feather harvesting.

Use of Scent Lures: Not commonly used in hunting, though calls or decoys may help attract them during the breeding season.