Ostrich Farming Welfare and Ratite Production

Ostriches are farmed commercially for leather, feathers, and meat, with welfare standards varying widely and the species presenting unique management challenges.

Key Facts

South Africa is the largest commercial ostrich producer, with Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape as the historical centre of the industry.
Ostriches are the largest living bird; adults can weigh up to 150 kg and reach speeds of 70 km/h.
They have poor eyesight in the dark and panic easily; low-stress handling and appropriate lighting are critical welfare factors.
Ostrich leather is highly valued; the industry produces leather, feathers, and meat from the same animals.
Ostriches are social birds that live in groups in the wild; isolation causes stress and should be avoided in farm settings.
Chick mortality in ostrich farming is high; early life management including nutrition and temperature regulation is challenging.
Ostriches can be aggressive and are capable of delivering powerful kicks; handler safety and animal stress are interlinked.
Welfare standards for ratites are less developed than for conventional livestock; research is ongoing into optimal production systems.

Welfare Considerations

Ostrich farming presents distinctive welfare challenges arising from the species' specific behavioural and physiological characteristics. Their panic responses to unfamiliar stimuli, sensitivity to darkness, and strong flight instincts make intensive handling and confinement particularly stressful. The industry has historically been driven by the value of leather products, creating economic pressure to maximise throughput. Improving ostrich welfare requires species-specific research into housing design, handling protocols, and slaughter methods, as well as regulatory frameworks that recognise ratites as distinct from conventional poultry. Consumer interest in the welfare of luxury animal products like ostrich leather is an important driver of industry improvement.

What You Can Do

Research the welfare standards of producers before purchasing ostrich products including leather and meat.
Support development of ratite-specific welfare standards in agricultural and veterinary policy.
Advocate for humane slaughter requirements specifically adapted to ostriches and other ratites.
Donate to farm animal welfare organisations that include ratites in their research programmes.
Consider leather alternatives that do not involve animal welfare concerns.