Locations where encounters may occur:
(1) wild on the African plains or in Arabia
(2) ostrich ranches where ostriches are raised domestically for meat and feathers
(3) in zoos or animal parks
Things that may provoke an attack:
(1) getting too close
(2) provocative behavior, especially if intoxicated and/or throwing things
(3) encroaching on a male's territory
(4) presence of a nest or young ostriches
Sources of injury:
(1) frontal kick, with damage usually from the toenail which is very sharp
(2) pecking with the beak
Sites of fatal injuries:
(1) face
(2) neck
(3) abdomen (if disemboweled)
Protection if attacked:
(1) Do not try to outrun an ostrich since they are very fast.
(2) Lie prone (face down) to protect the abdomen and face.
(3) Use the hands and arms to shield the back of the head and neck.
(4) Lie very still even if being pecked.
(5) Wait until the animal loses interest and then carefully try to escape.
