Farmed Ostrich Welfare: Challenges in Commercial Production

Ostriches are farmed globally for meat, leather, and feathers, but their complex social and behavioural needs are poorly met in many commercial systems.

Key Facts

South Africa is the world's largest producer of ostrich products, with hundreds of thousands of birds farmed
Ostriches are highly social and form pair bonds; solitary housing causes significant stress
The species has evolved to roam over large territories - commercial facilities rarely provide adequate space
Ostriches show fear responses including lying flat when threatened, which can lead to injury in farm settings
Feather plucking is practised on live birds in some operations despite causing pain and stress
Ostrich leather commands high prices, creating economic incentive to prioritise skin quality over welfare
Transport of ostriches is particularly stressful due to their flightiness and sensitivity to handling
Slaughter methods require careful design as ostriches are large and powerful birds

Welfare Considerations

Ostrich farming occupies a welfare grey area - these birds have substantial cognitive and social complexity but are subject to few specific welfare regulations in most countries. Key priorities include banning live feather plucking, ensuring pair or group housing with adequate space, developing low-stress handling and slaughter protocols, and educating farmers on ostrich behaviour. Consumer awareness of ostrich welfare is very low compared to more familiar farm species.

What You Can Do

Avoid ostrich leather and feather products unless certified under high-welfare standards
Support organisations campaigning for farmed bird welfare beyond chickens and turkeys
Contact producers of ostrich products to ask about welfare standards
Advocate for species-specific welfare legislation covering all commercially farmed birds
Share information about farmed ostrich welfare to raise consumer awareness