ostrich

How a Bird Can Kill a Cheetah (And How to See One in 2027)

A male ostrich with striking black and white feathers standing in the grassy expanse of the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania, showcasing the two-toed feet and powerful legs used for sprinting.

The Heavyweight Champion of the Savannah

Did you know that an ostrich can sprint at speeds exceeding 40 miles per hour? More impressive than its speed, however, is its power: a single kick from an ostrich is strong enough to kill a cheetah. Each foot is equipped with only two toes, armed with lethal 4-inch claws that function like daggers.

I captured this shot of a magnificent male during our recent expedition in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania. The crater’s unique ecosystem provides the perfect backdrop for witnessing these giants in their natural habitat.

Travel Update:

Our 2026 African safaris are officially at capacity! If you missed out, don't worry—we will be opening seats for our 2027 Safari Season very soon. Stay tuned to grab your spot!

Want to read more? Check out our post: The Serengeti Speedster: The Ostrich is More Than a Fast Bird.

Serengeti chicken

Serengeti chicken

Safari operators often speak of the "Big Five." This is a linger-longer from the blood-sport days. The phrase does not identify Africa's largest species, but rather the five most difficult/dangerous animals to hunt on foot.

Tarangire

Tarangire

Zebras and wildebeests drank the muddy water, flicked their tails, rolled in the dust, and fussed with each other. It may have just been in my head, but somewhere I could hear the soundtrack of "The Lion King" playing.