Now, don’t let the plant-heavy menu fool you. Ostriches are savage opportunists. If a juicy grasshopper, a beetle, or even a small lizard crosses their path—gulp—it’s gone faster than you can say “herbivore.”
They especially go for insects during breeding season, when growing chicks need extra protein. Think of it as a parent sneaking a protein bar while the kids aren’t looking.
What Do Ostriches Eat: Diet, Habits, and Feeding Facts
Fun fact: ostriches have been known to eat turtles. Yes, whole turtles. Their stomach acid is so strong it dissolves the shell. So if you’re a turtle, avoid ostrich territory. Just sayin’.
Water? They’re Basically Desert Sponges
Ostriches don’t need to drink every day. Like, at all. They get most of their water from the plants they eat—especially succulents and wild melons. When they do drink, they can down over two gallons at a time.
Imagine chugging a water cooler in one go. That’s them, hydrating for the week.
And here’s a fun irony: they can survive in dry areas, but they absolutely love water. I’ve seen videos of ostriches splashing around like giant, derpy chickens. Total spa day energy.
