Ostriches are farmed globally for their leather, meat, and feathers. As highly mobile birds with complex social needs, meeting their welfare requirements in intensive systems presents significant challenges.
Farmed ostriches face welfare challenges across every stage of their production cycle. Chick mortality from cold, wet conditions and inadequate nutrition is high in poorly managed operations. Juveniles and adults in crowded pens cannot express their natural running and territorial behaviors, leading to chronic frustration and stress. Feather plucking without appropriate anesthesia causes acute pain. Handling and transport of these powerful birds is inherently stressful and risks injury to both animals and workers. Welfare improvements require species-appropriate space allowances, low-stress handling training, humane plucking protocols, and verified slaughter standards. Consumer demand for ethically sourced ostrich products can drive meaningful improvements in farming practices.