Farmed ostrich welfare addresses the specific needs of the world's largest bird in commercial systems producing feathers, leather and meat from this wide-ranging African species.
Farmed ostrich welfare is a specialized area given the unique characteristics of this species — extreme running speed, powerful defensive kicks, and a natural ecology involving large group territories in open savanna. Commercial systems that restrict these animals in inadequate enclosures create frustration and behavioral problems. Feather harvesting under stress causes significant welfare impact. Handling for veterinary procedures requires appropriate facilities to manage the injury risk to both animals and handlers. Welfare standards for ostriches are less developed than for common livestock species, reflecting the relatively niche scale of the industry. Species-specific welfare assessment tools and standards are needed.