What is the largest bird in the world?

The largest bird in the world is the ostrich (Struthio camelus), which can grow up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall and weigh as much as 340 pounds (155 kilograms). Native to Africa, ostriches are flightless birds with powerful legs that allow them to run at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour (72 kilometers per hour). Despite their inability to fly, they are strong, agile creatures that are capable of defending themselves with powerful kicks. Ostriches also lay the largest eggs of any living land animal.