Farm Animals

Welfare of Farmed Ostriches

Ostrich farming for leather, feathers, and meat involves welfare challenges specific to this largest of birds, including capture stress, transport, and slaughter.

Key Facts

Welfare Considerations

Ostrich farming welfare challenges relate to the species natural fear response to human handling, the pain of feather harvesting, and slaughter methods that must account for their large size. Low-stress handling systems and anesthesia for plucking are welfare improvements.

What You Can Do