Why Ostriches Have Two Knees
By: EjazUlHaqBhat
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Ostriches have two kneecaps (patellae) per knee, a unique anatomical feature not found in most other animals
Image: Pexels
They possess a "true" patella (similar to humans) and a smaller, additional patella that's closely attached to the lower leg bone
Image: Pexels
The second kneecap might allow ostriches to straighten their knees more quickly, potentially contributing to their high speed
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Ostriches are large, powerful, charismatic birds with numerous claims to fame and are the largest living member of the avian family
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They are the fastest animals on two legs and are the only animals to bear twice the regulation number of kneecaps
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Ostriches have long necks, muscular legs, and claw-like feet, and their bodies are covered in large, fluffy feathers
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Some researchers suggest that the second kneecap helps protect the tendons that run across the front of the knee
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While these theories provide potential explanations, the exact function of the second patella in ostriches remains a subject of ongoing research
Image: Pexels
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