Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Somali ostrich
Scientific name: Struthio molybdophanes
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: STRUTHIONIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Tolerant
Safe distance: 50 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.11-31.01
Gestation: 35-45 jours
Births: 15.12-31.03
Habitat:
Dry savannas, grasslands and sparse thornbush
Description:
The Somali ostrich, also called the blue-necked ostrich, is a large flightless bird standing 1.5–2.7 m tall and weighing 90–156 kg, with black plumage and a pale blue-gray head and neck in males, and brown plumage in females. Endemic to the Horn of Africa (Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya), it inhabits dry savannas, grasslands and sparse thornbush, feeding mainly on plants, seeds and insects. Solitary or in small groups, it relies on its remarkable speed to evade predators.
Recommended lens:
>=400 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the Somali ostrich ideally at dawn or late afternoon using a telephoto lens of at least 400 mm. Position yourself low to isolate the bird against the landscape and use a fast shutter speed to freeze its movements. Keep at least 50 m distance to avoid disturbance and remain silent.
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