The Marine Ostrich shows once again the remarkable adaptability of some species.
When you think of birds with a strong connection with the sea you probably think of various gulls, penguins, even pelicans perhaps.
However, there is one bird species that you would normally associate with more arid conditions, that has, nonetheless, managed to adapt and survive to coastal living - The Marine Ostrich.
The Marine Ostrich, like it’s land-based cousin is also a flightless bird, but definitely not swimless.
Marine Ostriches are able to move with surprising speed and grace underwater.
Although it’s small, under-sized wings are no use at all getting airborne, they are of great use when it comes to getting waterborne. Much like a penguin would use its flippers, or a pelican it’s wings, the Ostrich uses its own wings to help propel itself through the water. It is also aided by webbed feet.
Of course its long legs also enable it to wade out much further than other birds before it has to resort to swimming.
Marine Ostriches can be found in remote coastal regions in Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.
Marine Ostriches in captivity
Zookeeper Delia Doo-Rizzle and Oscar doing the rounds at the zoo.
Enterprising zookeeper, Delia Doo-Rizzle thought her way out of getting wet while at the zoo one day.
She initially thought she was in for a soaking, having left her umbrella at home. Fortunately for her, she was able to enlist the help of Oscar the Ostrich, who was more than happy to dangle a modified lampshade over Delia’s head as she went about her duties.
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