Somali Ostrich

The Somali ostrich, known scientifically as Struthio molybdophanes and colloquially as the blue-necked ostrich, is a grand flightless bird that graces the Horn of Africa with its presence. It stands as one of the two extant species of ostriches, the other being its relative, the common ostrich. This species was recognized as distinct from the common ostrich in 2014, having previously been considered a subspecies.

Identification Tips

The Somali ostrich can be distinguished by the unique coloration of its skin; the neck and thighs exhibit a blue hue, which intensifies to a vivid blue in males during the breeding season. Unlike its relatives, the Somali ostrich's neck is devoid of the broad white ring typically seen in other ostrich species. The males, larger in stature than the females, also boast white tail feathers.

Habitat

This species predominantly inhabits the Horn of Africa, with its range extending across the varied landscapes of north-eastern Ethiopia, southern Djibouti, much of Kenya, and the vast majority of Somalia.

Distribution

The Somali ostrich is native to the Horn of Africa, where it roams the arid and semi-arid regions. Its distribution is primarily within the aforementioned countries, where it has adapted to the local environments.

Behaviour

Ecologically distinct from the common ostrich, the Somali ostrich shows a preference for bushier and more densely vegetated areas. It is primarily a browser rather than a grazer, which contrasts with the common ostrich's inclination towards open savanna grazing. There have been reports suggesting that the two species experience difficulties when interbreeding.

Status and Conservation

As of the last assessment, the Somali ostrich is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. In the 1970s and 1980s, it was common in central and southern Somalia, but following political instability and the absence of effective wildlife conservation measures, its numbers have dwindled. Uncontrolled hunting for meat, medicinal products, and eggs has led to a reduction in its range and population, with the species facing potential eradication in the Horn of Africa. In Kenya, however, the Somali ostrich is farmed, which may offer a more sustainable approach to utilizing its resources.

Diet and Feeding

The Somali ostrich's diet consists largely of plant matter, as it browses the more thickly vegetated areas within its habitat. This diet differentiates it from the common ostrich, which is more of a grazer.

Breeding

During the mating season, the male Somali ostrich's neck turns a striking bright blue, signaling its readiness to breed.

Similar Species

The Somali ostrich is often compared to the common ostrich, from which it was once thought to be a subspecies. The common ostrich typically has pinkish skin on its neck and thighs and a white ring around its neck, which the Somali ostrich lacks.

Conservation Status

The Somali ostrich is currently listed as Vulnerable, indicating that it faces a high risk of endangerment in the wild. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the survival of this species, particularly in regions where it has been heavily affected by human activities.