Largest Birds On Earth
Ostrich (Struthio camelus) The ostrich is the largest bird on Earth, known for its remarkable size and speed. Found in the savannas and deserts of Africa, these magnificent birds can reach a height of up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) and weigh over 300 pounds (136 kilograms). Their long legs and powerful thighs allow them to sprint at incredible speeds of up to 43 miles per hour (70 kilometers per hour). Ostriches have strong, sharp beaks and large, expressive eyes.
Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) The emu is the second-largest bird on Earth and is native to Australia. Standing at around 6.2 feet (1.9 meters) tall, these flightless birds possess long, powerful legs that enable them to run at remarkable speeds. Emus have soft, shaggy feathers that range in color from gray to brown, providing effective insulation against Australia’s varied climates. They have a distinct appearance with their small wings, long necks, and slender bodies.
Southern Cassowary (Casuarius casuarius) The Southern Cassowary is a large, flightless bird found in the rainforests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia. These birds are renowned for their striking appearance and distinctive features. Standing up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall, cassowaries have a glossy black plumage and a vividly colored casque on their heads. The casque, a bony projection, serves as protection and is also involved in producing low-frequency vocalizations.
Northern Cassowary (Casuarius unappendiculatus) The Northern Cassowary is a large, flightless bird found in the rainforests of New Guinea and surrounding islands. Similar to its southern counterpart, the Northern Cassowary possesses impressive size, standing up to 5.8 feet (1.8 meters) tall. It features a distinctive appearance with its glossy black plumage and a large casque on its head, which plays a role in communication and possibly as protection during headbutting contests with other cassowaries.
Greater Rhea (Rhea americana) The Greater Rhea is a large, flightless bird native to South America, particularly the grasslands and savannas of Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. It stands at an impressive height of up to 5.9 feet (1.8 meters), making it one of the largest birds in the world. Greater Rheas have a predominantly grayish-brown plumage that provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. Males and females share similar appearances, with the males being slightly larger.
Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) The Emperor Penguin is one of the most iconic and remarkable species of penguins, known for their adaptability to extreme Antarctic conditions. These magnificent birds are the largest of all penguin species, with adult males reaching a height of about 4 feet (1.2 meters) and weighing up to 88 pounds (40 kilograms).
Kori Bustard (Ardeotis kori) The Kori Bustard is a large bird species native to the grasslands and savannas of Africa. It is considered one of the heaviest flying birds in the world, with males weighing up to 40 pounds (18 kilograms) and standing at a height of around 4 feet (1.2 meters). These magnificent birds have a striking appearance, featuring a grayish-brown plumage, a long neck, and a robust body.
Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) The Andean Condor is a magnificent bird of prey and one of the largest flying birds in the world. Found in the Andes Mountains of South America, it has a wingspan that can reach up to 10.5 feet (3.2 meters) and can weigh up to 33 pounds (15 kilograms). With its black feathers, white collar, and distinctive bald head, the Andean Condor is an iconic symbol of the high altitudes it inhabits.
Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus) The Dalmatian Pelican is one of the largest freshwater bird species in the world, inhabiting wetlands and lakes across parts of Europe and Asia. With a wingspan that can exceed 9 feet (2.8 meters) and a weight of up to 33 pounds (15 kilograms), these pelicans are truly imposing. They have a distinct appearance, with a white plumage, a vibrant orange bill, and a prominent, expandable throat pouch.
Wandering Albatross (Diomedea exulans) The Wandering Albatross is a magnificent seabird that holds the record for having the largest wingspan of any living bird, reaching up to 11.5 feet (3.5 meters). Found in the Southern Ocean and surrounding regions, these albatrosses are known for their incredible long-distance flights and their ability to effortlessly glide for hours using air currents. Wandering Albatrosses have a white plumage, with males displaying a distinctive pinkish bill.