The Ostrich is the largest living bird; their height averages between 2.1 and 2.5 meters and they weigh between 100 and 160 kg. Their egg-shaped body is covered with soft feathers. Chicks, both male and female, have brown feathers. As they mature males get black body-feathers and white primaries (major wing feathers), while females get gray-brown body feathers and primaries with brown or black tips. Ostriches have a long very flexible neck with which they can reach the ground for grazing as well as leaves of trees. When keeping their head up they can see danger from afar. Ostriches are essentially grazers, and live on grasses, bushes, shrubs, tree leaves, but also small insects and rodents. Since they are used to living in dry areas they are very draught resistant. Ostriches have very good eyesight with eyes of about the same size as human eyes, long eyelashes and a nictitating inner-eyelid to protect the eye from sand-particles. Good hearing is provided by two large external ear canals at the back of the head. With their long powerful two-toed legs they can, in case of danger run at speeds of up to 40 m.p.h. (70 km./h). When in a fight, they raise their leg high and kick downward with their large toenail inflicting a ripping wound. Especially during breeding season males can be aggressive and dangerous. Ostriches can reach the respectable age of 60 to 70 years. Females will be commercially productive for 25-30 years, males even longer

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Introduction to the Ostrich Industry

Our Farm

Requirements for the Farm

The Ostrich Meat, Feathers, Leather, Oil

Ostrich Recipes

Feeds

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