How Long Are Ostrich Strides?

Ostrich strides can be as long as 16 feet (about 4.88 m). That's more than six times longer than the average human stride — and longer than two tall people laying end-to-end. When running full-out, ostriches can reach a speed of about 40 mph (about 64 km/hour), which makes it the fastest of any animal with two legs.

More facts about ostriches and strides:

• Generally speaking, an animal's stride when walking is a little bit longer than the distance from its shoulders to its hips.


• Perhaps unsurprisingly, ostriches also have the longest legs of any bird. The average ostrich is 7 to 9 feet tall (2.13 to 2.74 m), much of which is its legs.


• Horses' average strides are 12 feet (3.66 m), which is 4 feet (1.22 m) shorter than those of ostriches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is an ostrich's stride when it runs?

An ostrich's stride can be impressively long when it is running at top speeds. According to the American Ostrich Association, an ostrich can cover up to 16 feet in a single stride. This incredible stride length is a key factor in their ability to reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

What factors contribute to the length of an ostrich's stride?

The length of an ostrich's stride is influenced by its unique anatomy. Ostriches have long, powerful legs that allow for extended strides. Additionally, their tendons act like springs, giving them the ability to cover more ground with less energy, which is essential for their survival in the wild where they may need to travel long distances to find food and water.

Can an ostrich's stride length vary, and if so, by how much?

Yes, an ostrich's stride length can vary depending on its speed. When walking, an ostrich's stride is much shorter than when it is running. At a sprint, the stride can extend up to 16 feet, but at a walk, it is significantly less. The stride length adjusts dynamically as the ostrich transitions from a walk to a run.

How does an ostrich's stride compare to that of other large birds?

An ostrich's stride is among the longest of any bird due to its size and leg length. For comparison, the emu, another large flightless bird, has a maximum stride length of about 9 feet when running. Ostriches, being larger with longer legs, naturally have a greater stride length, which contributes to their status as the fastest birds on land.

What role does an ostrich's stride play in its overall speed?

The long stride of an ostrich is a critical component of its ability to achieve high speeds. The combination of stride length and rapid leg turnover rate allows ostriches to cover ground quickly and efficiently. This adaptation is particularly advantageous for outrunning predators or covering vast stretches of their habitat in search of resources.

Are there any other animals that have a comparable stride length to an ostrich?

While many animals have impressive stride lengths, the ostrich's stride is exceptional among birds. In the mammal kingdom, however, some large animals like giraffes and horses can have comparable or even longer stride lengths when galloping. For instance, a thoroughbred racehorse can have a stride length of over 20 feet at a full gallop.