[7] Conversely, the genetic divergence observed between S. c. massaicus and S. c. molybdophanes, albeit a lack of any zoogeographic barrier, is thought to be due to the ecological differences in behavioral and reproductive cues between these populations.

[10] Their heads are relatively small compared to their body and are covered in degenerated feathers that give the upper two-thirds of their elongated neck an almost naked appearance.

[11] The skin of the neck and thighs of male Masai ostriches is bare and pink in color, which intensifies to an almost reddish hue during mating season.

Their large size prevents the capability of flight, but this is compensated by their exceptionally long and muscular legs, which allow for maximum running speeds of up to 60–70 km/h.

[4] Unlike most avian species, male ostriches have a retractable penis that averages 20 cm in length and everts during defecation, urination, and copulation.

[4][11] The ostrich is the only bird to void urine separate from defecation due to the muscular sphincter-like folds located within the cloaca.

[11][13] Several physiological adaptations have evolved to allow the Masai ostrich to live in the extreme arid conditions of Sub-Saharan Africa.

Masai ostriches also possess salt-excreting nasal glands which allow for consumption of salt water from saline and soda lakes when necessary.

During this time, the pink hue on male Masai ostriches neck and leg skin intensifies as a form of mating display.

[19] Egg hatching occurs during October and November, when eastern Africa experiences brief periods of rainfall that generates edible plants that are the Masai ostriches primary food source.

The conspicuous size and color of the Masai ostrich eggs makes them an easy target for predation, particularly when major females abandon nests for upwards of two to three weeks prior to incubation.

[10] Alongside predation, human activity has been shown to have a negative impact on the success of wild Masai ostrich communities.

[4][23] Anthropogenic-induced ostrich population decline is believed to be attributed to rapid human expansion within Sub-Saharan Africa, resulting in reduced resources and territory availability.

[23] Collection of ostrich eggs by both locals and tourists within protected areas has also poses a substantial negative impact on their population success.

[26] Ostrich eggs and feathers have been harvested for ornamental purposes throughout history, but are frequently utilized today by the Maasai as source of food and as a vessel for liquids.