The ostrich (Struthio camelus) is the tallest and heaviest living bird species on Earth. Ostriches are native to Africa and are flightless birds that grow up to 9 feet tall (approximately 2.7 meters) and weigh over 340 pounds (approximately 156 kilograms). They have the largest egg of any bird species and the fastest land speed of 43-45 mph (approximately 70 kilometers per hour).