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Publisher: Reaktion Books, London

Publication Year: 2013

Binding: Softback

Page Count: 184

ISBN Number: 978-1-780-23039-9

Price: £ 9.99

OSTRICH

Unfortunately, none of us Garden BirdWatchers in the northern hemisphere are likely to need the ‘rare species’ page to log in this curious bird! Familiar, it has a chicken-like body but weighs 100-150 kgs, is 2-3 metres high, can’t fly but can run up to 60km an hour.

The origins of the Ostrich and other flightless birds, and their geographical distribution proved to be very complex, especially as their common ancestor from 80 million years ago was able to fly. These questions have only recently been answered using genetic technology.

The popularity (and decline) of all products from the Ostrich – leather, eggs (for their fantastic shells), feathers and meat – has led to the rise and fall of businesses over the centuries. Now in demand again for meat and luxury handbags the Ostrich is farmed all over the world.

Another gem from Reaktion - filled with facts, humorous details and illustrations about the largest living bird.

Book reviewed by Pat Beasley



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