SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ostriches-dont-bury-heads

A scared ostrich can't run away. What does it really do?

It lies flat on the ground and stays still. No head in the sand.

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The Just Right card

Too littleBuries its head and hopes
Too muchAlways charges at the danger
Just rightDrops flat and stays very still

Huh, didn't know that: Ostriches swallow sand, pebbles and small stones on purpose. The stones help grind up food in their gizzard.

The dad joke
What kind of bird works at a construction site? A crane.
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References

Answer: Lies flat on the ground and stays still. Ostriches don't bury their heads. When one can't run, it flops down with its head and neck flat on the ground. From far away, it blends in with the sand.

  1. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance: Ostrich animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/ostrich
    Contrary to the popular myth, ostriches do not bury their heads in the sand!
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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