How Hard Can Ostriches Kick?

Ostriches kick with a force of about 2,000 pounds per square inch (141 kg per square cm) — that's more than twice as hard as elite boxers hit. Besides the force of their kicks, ostriches also have sharp talons on their feet, and the talons are about 4 inches (about 10.2 cm) long. An ostrich kick can kill a human, a dog or a fully grown lion.

More facts about ostriches:

  • Ostriches don't actually bury their heads in the sand, though they do hunker down on the ground sometimes to try to camouflage themselves.

  • Most fully grown ostriches are about 6 to 9 feet (about 1.8 to 2.7 m) tall, and can weigh up to 350 lbs (about 159 kg). Much of their height comes from their legs, which can cover up to 16 feet (about 4.9 meters) per stride.

  • Ostriches also have the largest eyes of any terrestrial animal. Their eyes are almost 2 inches (50.8 mm) in diameter.

  • Although cheetahs have a faster maximum speed than ostriches, ostriches can outrun cheetahs over long distances. They can run at about 30 mph (about 48.3 km/hr) over extended distances and can sprint at speeds of about 40 mph (about 64.4 km/hour).

Frequently Asked Questions

How powerful is an ostrich's kick?

An ostrich's kick is incredibly powerful, with the ability to exert a force of up to 2,000 pounds per square inch (psi). This is due to their strong leg muscles and large tendons, which allow them to deliver a kick strong enough to kill potential predators, such as lions, or cause serious harm to humans.

Can an ostrich's kick be fatal to humans?

Yes, an ostrich's kick can be fatal to humans. The sheer force of the kick, combined with the sharp claws on their feet, can result in severe injuries or even death. Incidents involving human fatalities are rare but have been documented, emphasizing the need for caution around these powerful birds.

What is the purpose of an ostrich's kick?

An ostrich's kick serves as a primary means of defense. When threatened, ostriches use their powerful legs to deliver a strong kick to deter predators. This defensive behavior is crucial for their survival in the wild, where they must protect themselves from animals like lions and hyenas.

How fast can an ostrich run, and does it relate to their kicking power?

Ostriches are the fastest two-legged animals, reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour. Their running prowess is directly related to their kicking power; the same strong leg muscles that propel them at high speeds also enable them to deliver forceful kicks. This combination of speed and strength makes them formidable opponents in the wild.

Do ostriches use their kicks for anything other than defense?

Besides defense, ostriches may also use their kicks during mating rituals and to establish dominance within their groups. Males, in particular, might kick to show strength and compete for the attention of females during the breeding season, although defense remains the primary use of their powerful legs.

How can one safely observe ostriches without risking a kick?

To safely observe ostriches, it is essential to maintain a respectful distance and avoid sudden movements that could be perceived as a threat. Observing them in controlled environments, such as wildlife reserves with trained professionals, is advisable. Always follow the guidelines provided by experts to minimize the risk of provoking an ostrich's defensive behavior.

More Info: http://animals.nationalgeographic.com

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