when threatened, the ostrich will either hide itself by lying flat against the ground, or will run away. if cornered, it can attack with a kick from its powerful legs. common predators of nests and young ostriches include jackals, various birds of prey, mongoose and vultures. animals that prey on ostriches of all ages include cheetahs, lions, leopards, african dogs, and spotted hyena. ostriches can often outrun their predators in a pursuit and can even outpace cheetahs over long distances. however, they may sometimes fight fiercely against predators, especially when chicks are being defended. they have sometimes killed lions in such fights.