The belief that the ostrich buries its head in the sand when faced with danger is a widespread and ancient idea, dating back at least to the writings of Pliny the Elder in Roman times. This vivid image of the large flightless bird trying to ignore a threat by concealing its head has persisted for centuries. The concept is so ingrained in popular culture that it is frequently used as a metaphor for people avoiding their problems. The enduring nature of this claim suggests a real behavior was observed, even if the interpretation of that action was mistaken.
The Truth Behind the Common Belief
Despite the longevity of this popular saying, ostriches do not bury their heads in the sand for any reason, especially not out of fear. This behavior is biologically impossible for the animal, as it would lead to immediate suffocation. The ostrich, like all birds, requires a clear airway for respiration, a function that cannot be maintained with its head fully submerged. This misconception has endured through history, suggesting a visual phenomenon must be creating the persistent illusion.
Ostrich Nesting Behavior and the Illusion
The primary reason for the myth lies in the bird’s unique nesting and parental care behaviors. Ostriches do not construct conventional, elevated nests, but instead dig shallow depressions, or scrapes, in the sand to serve as a communal nest for their eggs. The female lays her eggs in these hollows, which are often barely covered by sand to help regulate temperature.
To ensure proper development, the parents must regularly rotate the eggs, which can happen several times throughout the day. When the ostrich lowers its long neck and head deep into the scrape to use its beak to turn the eggs, its head temporarily disappears from view. Observed from a distance, this action creates the visual effect of the bird having its head buried in the ground.
The optical illusion is further strengthened by the coloration of the ostrich’s neck feathers, which blend seamlessly with the surrounding sandy or dusty terrain. The bird’s head is relatively small compared to its massive body, making its temporary disappearance appear complete to a distant observer. This combination of egg maintenance and natural camouflage likely misled early observers, cementing the myth that the ostrich was hiding.
What Ostriches Do When Truly Threatened
When an ostrich senses danger, its primary defense mechanism is to run away. Possessing long, powerful legs, the ostrich is one of the fastest terrestrial animals, able to sprint at speeds up to 70 kilometers per hour. They use their strong wings as rudders to aid in sudden changes of direction, allowing them to evade predators like lions and cheetahs.
If running is not possible, especially when protecting a nest or young, the ostrich will resort to fighting. The bird delivers a formidable kick forward, using the large, sharp claw on its inner toe as a weapon. This powerful blow is capable of inflicting serious injury and can deter or even kill a large predator. Another defensive behavior is dropping its long neck flat against the ground, which is a form of camouflage intended to blend its head and neck into the landscape.