FLIGHTLESS LAND BIRDS 
(Ostriches, Rheas, Cassowaries, Emus and Kiwis) 
These are believed to be descended from primitive birds that were originally 
able to fly, the stock branching off from the main line of descent at a very 
early period in evolutionary history. Many are fast approaching extinction, 
a fate which their gigantic cousin, the moa, met some five hundred years 
ago. The moa of New Zealand attained the height of twelve feet. Another 
extinct relative, the elephant bird or roc of Madagascar, though it did not 
exceed the height of the ostrich, was remarkable for its massive limbs and 
great eggs which measured nearly thirty-four inches in circumference. Such 
an egg would hold more than two gallons or equal the contents of one hun¬ 
dred and fifty hen’s eggs. 
Except for the kiwi, the flightless birds are large and heavy, with 
powerful legs and small heads. Their wings are degenerate, consisting of 
one or two stubby fingers. In several cases, notably the emu and the ostrich, 
the toes terminate in a strong claw, capable of inflicting a serious wound. 
Nearly all of them lack the keel, typical of flying birds. The sternum or 
breastbone is flat or raftlike, and this accounts for the name Ratitae (Latin 
ratis, raft). 
Their plumage differs from that of their flying relatives. Flying birds 
have distinct and firm feathers arranged in definite areas of the body, par¬ 
ticularly the wings and tail. Flightless birds have a soft and fluffy coat that 
covers the body uniformly. 
Ostriches: South African Ostrich. 
Rheas: Great-billed Rhea. 
White Rhea. 
Cassowaries: Common Cassowary. 
Violet-necked Cassowary. 
Emu. 
Kiwi. 
Emus: 
Kiwis: 
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