Ostriches

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.

"Developed by literacy experts for students in kindergarten through grade three, this book introduces ostriches to young readers through leveled text and related photos"--

"This book covers information (life cycle, appearance, habitat) about the ostrich. Each chapter discusses an aspect of the ostrich's life, comparing the bird to a similar bird and to a very different bird."--

A comprehensive review of all aspects of ostrich production including a series of case histories from some countries that farm ostriches commercially: important countries such as South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe; newly re-emerging industries such as Australia; and countries where production is less developed, such as Kenya, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Have you ever wondered if ostriches really bury their heads under the sand when they are afraid? I am sure you have seen pictures or perhaps seen in some cartoons how this is so. Is this true or just a myth? Read this book to find out the answer and to learn more about the ostrich. In this book you will learn a lot of things about the ostrich. We all know what an ostrich looks like. They are huge birds with black feathers, a long neck and long legs. But did you know that ostriches are birds that can't fly? Find out the reasons why. Also learn how an ostrich can balance with thin legs. Learn about what they eat, how they live, and how they take care of their young. This book will answer many questions about the ways of an ostrich. Why do both parents take turns sitting on their eggs? What are their predators? How do they protect themselves against their predators? Why are they very useful to farmers? What kinds of birds are they related to? This book also contains more than 20 colorful pictures of the ostrich in its natural habitat. These pictures will help children learn about the ostrich better.

Describes the physical characteristics, habitat, feeding behavior, and predators of ostriches.

Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and life cycle of the ostrich.

Set against the unexpected splendor of an ostrich ranch in the California desert, April Dávila’s beautifully written debut conjures an absorbing and compelling heroine in a story of courage, family and forgiveness. When Tallulah Jones was thirteen, her grandmother plucked her from the dank Oakland apartment she shared with her unreliable mom and brought her to the family ostrich ranch in the Mojave Desert. After eleven years caring for the curious, graceful birds, Tallulah accepts a job in Montana and prepares to leave home. But when Grandma Helen dies under strange circumstances, Tallulah inherits everything—just days before the birds inexplicably stop laying eggs. Guarding the secret of the suddenly barren birds, Tallulah endeavors to force through a sale of the ranch, a task that is complicated by the arrival of her extended family. Their designs on the property, and deeply rooted dysfunction, threaten Tallulah’s ambitions and eventually her life. With no options left, Tallulah must pull her head out of the sand and face the fifty-year legacy of a family in turmoil: the reality of her grandmother's death, her mother's alcoholism, her uncle's covetous anger, and the 142 ostriches whose lives are in her hands. “Vivid…uplifting…The fascinating details of operating an ostrich ranch elevate this family tale.” —Publishers Weekly “Tension mounts in every chapter, and when the difficult forces converge in the satisfying climax, Tallulah discovers clarity. This is an enjoyable, winning, interesting novel for readers of many backgrounds.” —Booklist (starred review) “A story told with depth and beauty about the many things we inherit from our families. Dávila’s characters are familiar, yet unforgettable, and I’m waiting patiently for what she writes next.” —Wayétu Moore, author of She Would Be King