Farmed Ostrich and Emu Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Ostriches and emus are farmed for meat, leather, and feathers, with welfare challenges specific to these large ratite birds in captive conditions.

Key Facts

South Africa is the world largest ostrich producer with approximately 250,000 farmed birds
Ostriches can live over 40 years and are highly intelligent and curious birds
Feather harvesting causes acute stress in ostriches that must be restrained during plucking
Ostriches can deliver powerful kicks that injure handlers and other birds in confined spaces
Emus are farmed in Australia, the US, and China primarily for oil, meat, and leather

Welfare Considerations

Ostriches in intensive systems cannot run freely as their powerful locomotor system requires. Feather harvesting under restraint causes acute fear and stress. Stocking densities in intensive ostrich farms restrict natural flocking behaviour and increase aggressive interactions. Ostriches are not domesticated animals in the way that poultry and livestock are, meaning they retain stronger fear responses to handling. Welfare assessment frameworks adapted for ratites are needed.

What You Can Do

Avoid ostrich leather products from farms without documented welfare standards
Support feather-free fashion alternatives that eliminate demand for plucked ostrich feathers
Choose emu oil products from producers with verified welfare practices
Advocate for ratite-specific welfare standards in countries with significant farming industries
Raise awareness about the welfare needs of these large, intelligent, non-domesticated birds