Ratite farming for meat, oil, leather, and feathers presents specific welfare challenges related to the unique biology and behavioural needs of these large flightless birds.
Ratite farming welfare reflects the challenges of farming species that have not been selectively domesticated over millennia like conventional livestock. Ostriches and emus retain strong stress responses, require large spaces to express natural behaviour, and are prone to welfare problems in high-density systems. Foot and leg health is a primary concern in housed birds. Breeding aggression creates both welfare and safety challenges for farm staff. Slaughter requires careful planning to prevent pre-slaughter stress. The relatively small scale of the industry means that species-specific welfare research is limited and welfare standards are underdeveloped.