Welfare concerns in ostrich farming for feathers, skin, and meat production.
Ostrich farming occupies a welfare space that is less publicized than livestock farming but involves genuine welfare concerns. The feather industry, which supplies luxury fashion markets, has faced criticism for practices including live plucking that causes acute pain and distress. Supply chain transparency in fashion regarding feather sourcing is limited, and consumer awareness is low. Ostrich farming for meat and leather involves transport and slaughter welfare challenges specific to these large, stress-sensitive birds. Welfare-conscious producers in South Africa and elsewhere have developed better management practices, but certification and verification of welfare claims in this industry are less developed than in mainstream livestock sectors.