It appears that KM is trying to offer too much assistance to the solver, and it would be an improvement if clues were to be shortened and give less information.
I don't wish to be critical as it has to be applauded how quickly Kate Mepham picked up the reins so soon after the death of her father. However, I think most of us would appreciate a puzzle that provided more of a challenge.
Skeletim, I try not to fall out with friends on AB, but I really struggle to see where you're coming from.
1. The scientific name for ostrich (on Google) takes you straight to struchious.
2. Some people only visit AB when they need help. Others like to offer help, and many enjoy the cameraderie and banter to be found here.
3. Why mess with crosswords at all if they don't provide a bit of a challenge - just filling in the squares is like playing at Post Office.
Is struthious connected to the abbreviation 'struth' at all? I always associate struth with Aussie speak, but I'm probably completely wrong - the brain is wandering!