Linda The Ostrich Gets Warm Welcome To The Smithsonian's National Zoo

WASHINGTON, DC — Linda, a 4-year-old ostrich, is getting acclimated to her new surroundings at the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and the zookeepers are still learning about her behavior and personality.

At about 8 feet tall, Linda arrived at the National Zoo in November and has been keeping the zookeepers on their toes ever since.

“Just when we think we know what she’s going to do, she changes her routine and does something a little unexpected,” the zoo said.

It has been many years since a large, flightless bird has called the National Zoo home. The zoo was once home to the late emu named Darwin who enjoyed watching visitors, the zoo said.

“While we are still getting to know Linda’s personality and quirks, we can already tell she is going to be a terrific ambassador for her species,” the National Zoo said. “Linda is alert and observant; she is keenly aware of new sights and sounds.”

Adult ostriches like Linda can weigh between 200 and 350 pounds, too heavy to fly.

Ostriches that find themselves in danger may fight by kicking at the perceived threat, or it may flee and sprint away at speeds up to 43 miles per hour. Ostriches are the fastest species of bird on land.

Wild ostriches eat plants and small animals, including mice, frogs and insects. At the National Zoo, Linda eats pellets that are fortified with vitamins and nutrients, as well as a variety of produce and some insects.

The animal care team is working to prepare the outdoor habitat for Linda, who lives in the Cheetah Conservation Station, and plans to give her access to the exhibit soon. The zoo said it plans to announce when Linda will make her debut on her its social media channels.

“We hope you’ll stop by and say hello to Linda,” the zoo said.

National Zoo social media:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nationalzoo
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/nationalzoo
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smithsonianzoo