Ostrich is a big bird. It has wings just like the smaller birds. What could be the reason that they cannot fly?
a. They are enemies.
b. They are lazy in flying.
c. They only like to walk and run.
d. They cannot lift their heavy bodies off the ground.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is d. They cannot lift their heavy bodies off the ground.
Ostriches are large flightless birds, and despite having wings, they are unable to fly. This is primarily because of their size and weight. Their bodies are much larger and heavier compared to smaller birds, and this makes it difficult for them to generate the necessary lift to get off the ground. Unlike smaller birds, whose wings can provide enough lift relative to their body weight, ostriches have relatively small wings compared to their massive bodies.
The size of the ostrich’s body is designed for running, not flying. They are the fastest running birds, capable of reaching speeds of up to 70 km/h (about 43 mph) in short bursts. This running ability is supported by their strong, muscular legs and large body structure, which is built for endurance and speed on land rather than flight. Their wings, while large in proportion to their body, are not powerful enough to provide lift due to the sheer weight they have to support.
Additionally, flight requires not just wing size but also the right body structure, including a lightweight frame. Many birds that fly have hollow bones, which reduce their body weight, making it easier for them to take flight. Ostriches, however, have solid bones, which makes them too heavy to achieve flight.
While ostriches cannot fly, their wings do serve other purposes. They are used for balance while running and for courtship displays during mating rituals. The fact that ostriches cannot fly is an adaptation to their environment, where they have evolved to be fast runners rather than fliers.