Ostrich

In many senses the ostrich looms large - the tallest and heaviest of any living bird, a fully-grown North African ostrich can reach 2.75 metres (9 feet) in height and weigh almost 160 kgs (350 pounds). It also lays the largest egg. In addition to its physical presence, the ostrich also features in art, literature, film and popular culture, from its representation in cave paintings, ancient medieval manuscripts and the Bayeux tapestry, to its use in advertising, to cartoon characters, to modern films.§Ostrich provides a singular, comprehensive insight into this extraordinary, outlandish bird, chronicling the natural history, behaviour and habitat, as well as the effect of the animal on our culture. From its eggs, to its meat, skin and feathers, the bird has been exploited by humans since history began. The demand for ostrich feathers was so great in Victorian times that vast fortunes were made ostrich farming, particularly in South Africa and the United States. Following the First World War fashions changed, fortunes were lost, and new uses for the now domesticated ostrich had to be found. Nowadays, the modern ostrich farmer not only produces plumes and leather for the luxury market but also meat for the supermarket.§Featuring many striking illustrations drawn from nature and culture, Ostrich will appeal to all those interested in birds and nature, as well as anyone who follows fashion, art or ancient history.