From wobbling about – to dashing into the wild!
When six Somali ostrich chicks arrived at Reteti’s doorstep early last year, we instantly fell in love with their little legs and curious eyes darting about as they watched every move at the sanctuary! And like all parents, we were taken by surprise when they grew up in the blink of an eye. Before we knew it, they were ready to move on to their next chapter – a custom-built boma, just for them, and a new life on the other side of the Sarara Valley.
Hotfooting it into the future!
It was a day to remember when they set off walking alongside their keepers – all the way from Reteti Elephant Sanctuary to their next home on the foothills of the Mathews Mountains. Remembering a similar journey not too long ago – when we walked alongside Reteti’s fourth release of elephant orphans – our hearts warmed with a renewed sense of purpose to rescue and release wildlife in this land that we love!
The excitement was palpable, and despite no glitches, there was a moment when one ostrich was alarmed by a sound and Usain Bolt-ed into the bush! But since his Samburu keepers are equally fit and agile, they sprinted after him in a flash – rounding the runner up safely to rejoin the rest of the flock within minutes.
Heads up!
Watching the six enjoying their journey was truly endearing, but at the same time, it’s hard not to laugh when you see an ostrich on the move. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure: they manage to keep their heads almost stock still – like a ballerina in mid-pirouette – while those strong upper legs motor forward at lightning speed! They may be flightless, but they’re pretty fast on their feet – and can reach up to 70km/h. Keeping your head still when you’re going that fast is no small feat!
Looking back
We fondly remember those first days when we first met them, and the chicks arrived from different families and locations across Northern Kenya. After abundant rains blessed the landscape and transformed it into lush greenery, tall grasses caused the babies to lose sight of their mothers, and they ended up having to be rescued.
Coming to Reteti when they were less than a month old, they enjoyed a diet including everything from natural leaves to grass and seed pods. Everyone grew fond of them and loved their antics – and their presence is missed every day! Read more about how they found safety at Reteti in this blog.
Looking ahead
Settling into their new routine and surroundings, the six spitfires are now living their best life – with all the best chews and views young ostriches could wish for as they take the first steps into adult life. The area is perfectly suited for their dietary preferences, as they’re predominantly herbivores who love seeds, shrubs, grasses, fruits, and flowers. And as they’re known to nibble on some insects and small lizards occasionally, we’re happy to report there’s plenty in nature’s pantry here too!
With the ostriches thriving in their natural habitat, it’s a treat to check in on them once in a while, and we’re so proud of how much they’ve grown – inside and out!
Reteti’s dedicated team would not be able to rescue, care for, and release wildlife like these ostriches without the kindness and generous donations of supporters worldwide! Click here to become part of our family and join this journey of hope!