Loveless ostrich excited about lockdown lifting

No boyfriend under current rules

A Devon ostrich has a special reason to look forward to lifting of lockdown rules - she hasn't been able to cuddle up with a mate during covid times.

But now things are looking up for the big Paignton Zoo bird. Her keepers want to find her a lover as soon as current restrictions allow.

She's the only red-necked ostrich in the UK, so a mate will presumably have to come from abroad. It helps that Paignton Zoo is part of a worldwide captive breeding cooperation that aims to help the critically endangered bird thrive in its natural habitat.

Pete Smallbones, team leader of birds says: "Ostriches are the largest living bird and can weigh as much as two average adult men. They are also the world’s fastest two legged animal, reaching speeds of up to 70 kmph."

Red-necked ostriches have disappeared from much of their former range in North Africa because of over-hunting. Ostriches in other parts of Africa are doing much better. 

The news comes at a poignant time for Paignton Zoo. They've just received a donation towards their work with the outsized birds in memory of nearby resident Marie Youngs who passed away recently.

Her husband Andy says: "Marie loved ostriches, since she was a child she found them hysterical creatures. She would laugh every time she saw one, whether on the TV or in real life. It was their quirky nature, jolting walk and how they will eat absolutely anything!

"Marie and I lived in Paignton for the majority of her life, she was a much loved lady and well thought of amongst her friends, she would help anyone in time of need. I knew that she would be so happy that the money was going towards supporting the ostriches after being a big supporter of the zoo over the years."