The short answer: An adult ostrich typically weighs about 90 to 145 kg (200 to 320 lb), making it the heaviest living bird.
Ostrich weight by type
Ostriches are large, flightless birds native to Africa, and their weight depends on sex, age, and subspecies.
| Type (example) | Typical weight |
|---|---|
| Adult male | 100-145 kg (220-320 lb) |
| Adult female | 90-110 kg (200-240 lb) |
| Large breeding male | up to about 156 kg (345 lb) |
| Juvenile (6 months) | around 45-60 kg (100-130 lb) |
| Chick (newly hatched) | about 0.9 kg (2 lb) |
What affects ostrich weight
- Sex. Males tend to be heavier than females on average.
- Age. Ostriches reach full adult weight at roughly 18 months.
- Subspecies. Different regional ostrich populations vary slightly in size.
- Diet. Access to plentiful food affects body condition.
- Farmed vs. wild. Farm-raised ostriches can be heavier than wild ones.
- Season. Breeding condition and food supply shift weight through the year.
How ostrich weight compares
A large ostrich at around 145 kg weighs about the same as two adult men combined, or a small motorcycle.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an adult ostrich weigh?
Adult ostriches typically weigh between 90 and 145 kg (200 to 320 lb), with males usually on the heavier end.
What is the heaviest bird in the world?
The ostrich is the heaviest living bird, with large males reaching around 145 kg (320 lb) or more.
How much does an ostrich chick weigh?
A newly hatched ostrich chick weighs only about 0.9 kg (2 lb) but grows quickly.
