Ostriches stole the show at Fair

Accra, Nov. 14 GNA - Ostriches on display at the on-going Agri-Fair attracted a number of curious visitors, who were awed by the unaccustomed characteristics and features of the giant birds.

The Ostriches is reputed to be the largest and heaviest of all bird species and capable of running at the speed of more than 60 kilometres per hour for 30 minutes non-stop, making it the fattest runner.

They have a remarkable variation of features such as an overall weight of 160 kilograms that made it impossible for them to fly.

The birds also have unique shape; stunned eyes; strong and long legs and have a lifespan of between of 60 to 80 years.

The curiosity of the visitors was heightened when the birds reacted to their presence by stretching their long neck to launch attacks and juggled around.

Mr Williams Dzamefe, an exhibitor, told the Ghana News Agency that the visitors were attracted to the birds because it was rare in the country. He noted that the birds originally could only survive in the dry savannah grasslands but was now found in other geographical areas. Mr Dzamefe said the population of the ostrich was improving whereas centuries ago their number diminished because of general hunting and spreading of agricultural pursuits.

He said ostriches have strong, long and powerful legs with two toes and good kicking ability that served as an excellent tool for defence in case of attack.

The ostrich's feather has a great commercial value and was used for bags, belts, expensive office supplies and furniture decorations, due to its beauty and strong spotty nature.

Mr Dzamefe noted that the basic reason of displaying the birds was to offer those who were not privileged to have seen them before to have the opportunity to do so.