Ostrich look-alikes

Key differences

Previously considered a subspecies of the Common Ostrich, the Somali Ostrich is now recognized as a distinct species. Males have blue-gray skin on the neck and thighs, especially during breeding season, and a white collar at the base of the neck. Common Ostriches have pinkish skin on the neck and thighs.

Key differences

Rheas are found in South America, are smaller than Ostriches (up to 1.5 meters tall), have three toes on each foot, and their plumage is uniformly grayish-brown for both sexes. Ostriches are larger, have two toes, and exhibit strong sexual dimorphism in plumage.

Key differences

Emus are found in Australia, are smaller than Ostriches (up to 1.9 meters tall), have three toes, and their plumage is shaggy brown. Their neck is feathered, unlike the Ostrich's bare neck.