Ostrich Farming Blog

Which is better for optimum production – Pelleted Feed or Ground Feed?

2011-07-18T15:18:00.001-07:00

When ostrich farming a question often asked is whether it is better to have the feed pelleted or to feed the mix as a meal or ground. The illustration shows the results of a trial comparing identical rations fed in ground form and pelleted. The important factor when doing such a comparison is ensuring the formulas are exactly the same. Pelleted or Ground Feed in Ostrich Farming discusses the importance of understanding this factor.

How do we identify signs of Malnutrition in Ostrich

2011-07-16T14:22:00.001-07:00

So how do we identify malnutrition in ostrich farming? At the most basic level let us discuss the illustration. Photos A, B and C are all from a US farmer weight gain farmer benchmark trial and photos taken on the same day. The birds are clearly very young given their feathering.

By comparison D is a scientist scanning a breeder to establish why production is low. Note how he is on his knees when the farmer in the photos A, B and C is standing and dominated by those young chicks. Is it any wonder there are productive problems with the breeders in Photo D?

Photo E is a photo of new farmer investors proudly demonstrating their newly purchased breeders. Identifying Malnutrition in Ostrich covers this discussion in greater depth.

What is the most valuable product of Ostrich?

2011-07-12T16:14:00.001-07:00

Ostrich farming produces a number of products. Sources of Ostrich Farming Revenue illustrates how there are a number of market sectors that the ostrich supply. These are Meat, leather, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, fashion and craft. There are sub-markets within those different market sectors. But which is the most valuable? Which product is the most valuable when Ostrich Farming discusses the values these various market sectors contribute to the overall revenue from these birds.

In Ostrich Nutrition what is the difference in Nutrient Density and Concentrates?

2011-07-11T13:57:00.001-07:00

In livestock nutrition there can be some confusion when discussing “nutrient density” and “concentrates”. The word “concentrates” was introduced some years ago when livestock were fed some additional grains and maybe a few vitamins and/or minerals to help improve the overall nutrient content of their rations to support the forage that they would receive either as grazing, hay or silage.

In commercial ostrich farming, it is essential to understand that ostriches require rations that supply adequate nutrients. Defining Nutrient Density for Ostriches clearly differentiates the two distinct definitions.

What is the difference between Dietary Fibre and Roughage?

2011-07-09T15:30:00.001-07:00

All too often one hears references to roughage with the thought process that this is in an addition to the main ration. It appears that these people perceive the forage ingredient as providing only for the “roughage” element. In ostrich farming, forage ingredients are an important component of ostrich rations as discussed in Feed Ingredient Types in a Balanced Ostrich Ration.

Understanding the differences between Dietary Fibre and Roughage goes into greater depth on this topic.

What are the causes of Ostrich Chick Mortality?

2011-07-08T07:26:00.001-07:00

High levels of ostrich chick mortality have been a major problem in ostrich farming over the years. Chick Mortality in Ostrich Farming discusses this issue with some explanations provided by Causes of Ostrich Chick Mortality.

What do we understand by Ostrich Flock Security

2011-07-04T15:16:00.001-07:00

Currently the South African Ostrich industry supplies the majority of the current market supply for both ostrich skins and ostrich meat. Their ostrich farmers are again under threat as a result of disease outbreak that has stopped meat exports and resulted in thousands of birds slaughtered in their effort to control the disease.

Disease outbreaks are always a threat for any livestock production business – so ensuring flock security is an essential management tool to minimise such risks.. Ostrich Farming flock Security discusses this issue as it applies to ostrich farming.

How is Nutrient Density Defined?

2011-07-02T13:52:00.001-07:00

Put simply nutrient density is defined as a ratio of nutrient content (weight per nutrient) to the total energy content (in kilocalories or joules). Some foods contribute many nutrients along with their contribution of energy – other foods contribute only energy. The body of any species requires adequate nutrients in the correct proportions as well as sufficient energy.

The role of Nutrition in Ostrich Farming and Understanding Nutrients and Ingredients and Defining Nutrient Density for Ostriches discuss this in more detail as it applies when ostrich farming.

The table illustrates the comparative contribution of nutrients per gram of the specifed feed ingredient. Note how the greater the fibre, the notable reduction in essential nutrients.

Is Yolk Sac Infection Correctly Diagnosed?

2011-07-01T16:13:00.001-07:00

An ostrich does not have a gall bladder. This fact resulted in many farmers ostrich farming informed that that the cause of death in their baby ostrich chicks was caused by yolk sac infection. This diagnosis was based on witnessing various degrees of green colouration of yolk sacs on post mortem.

Bile is a green liquid required to assist in the digestion of fats. Yolk Sac Infection and Retention in Ostrich Chicks discuses this in more detail.

What are the types of defects experienced with Ostrich Eggs?

2011-06-26T12:56:00.001-07:00

There are a number of defects experienced in egg production. This applies to all farming, not only ostrich farming. Defects in Ostrich Eggs and their Causes provides details of some defects and explains possible causes.

The Price of Fertile Eggs, Chicks and Breeders

2011-06-23T15:34:00.001-07:00

When ostrich farming how is the price of a fertile ostrich egg assessed? How can we assess if the value offered is a fair value likely to provide a good return? The Price of Fertile Eggs, Chicks and Breeders provides some guidelines.

How do we define the Ostrich Farming Financial Cycle?

2011-06-18T00:07:00.001-07:00

Success in ostrich farming is dependent on all in the production chain as illustrated here achieving profitability. The illustration above demonstrates the importance of a consumer purchasing the products from ostrich farming and subsequent processes. That revenue is required to pay all suppliers of the process, with the surplus returning as profit for re-investment to support growth of the business.

Do the Economics of Breeder Production depend on High number of Eggs Laid or High number of Chicks Hatched?

2011-06-16T12:55:00.001-07:00

The answer to this question in ostrich farming is clearly the highest number of chicks. Infertile eggs and eggs that fail to hatch carry costs. These include costs of handling and taking space in the incubator. A hen producing 60 eggs with 90% hatchability is far more profitable than a hen producing 80 eggs at 50% hatchability. Ostrich Farming Production Targets for Ostrich illustrated the variability in breeder production experienced in ostrich farming today. The Economics of Breeder Production in Ostrich Farming discusses these economics further.

How much Ostrich Meat does an Ostrich Slaughter Bird Yield?

2011-06-14T13:55:00.001-07:00

When building a business plan for ostrich farming, it is necessary to understand the meat yields. For those just farming, it is important to acuratly evaluate their slaughter payment. For those also processing, it is essential to understand not only the yield but also the variable value of the different cuts. This can be an area of confusion. Ostrich meat yields in Slaughter Birds explains the percentages of total yield of the different muscle classes. The table illustrates the significant variations currently experienced.

Why is it necessary to beware of Ostrich Buy Back Schemes?

2011-06-09T15:27:00.001-07:00

When ostrich farming expanded outside South Africa, one way to finance these operations was selling farmers eggs and/or chicks on promises to buy back the same birds when they were either slaughter ready or at an age to enter the breeder herd. Beware of Ostrich Farming Buy Back Schemes identifies flaws in this system to be aware of before entering into such a contract.

How to buy Fertile Eggs

2011-06-08T14:13:00.001-07:00

Many starting ostrich farming believe it is possible to start with of a small number of fertile ostrich eggs. A major problem we regularly encounter with new entrants is a lack of understanding on the requirements for shipping eggs across international borders and how this influences not only the costs but also the practicalities. How to Buy Fertile Ostrich Eggs discusses this in more depth.

How can one identify the Age of an Ostrich?

2011-06-07T16:55:00.001-07:00

When starting ostrich farming it is essential to know the age of the birds one is purchasing. It is also essential to know the ages of birds presented at slaughter are within the requirements of that plant. So how is this achieved with accuracy? As discussed in Identifying the Age of Ostrich Slaughter Birds there is only one method and that is proper records and adequate identification systems.

Why a Feasibility Study is recommended when starting an Ostrich Farm

2011-06-06T15:09:00.001-07:00

A feasibility study asks the following questions:

Is the Project Technically Feasible?
Is the Project Feasible within the estimated cost?
Will the Project be profitable?

"Ostrich Farming Feasibility Study" discusses some of the considerations required to assist in such evaluations for those considering "ostrich farming".

What are the Challenges to Financing Ostrich Farming Production?

2011-06-05T15:21:00.001-07:00

Providing adequate financing ostrich farming is a serious barrier to successful commercial ostrich production. Financing Ostrich Farming Production discusses the topic in more detail.

How is an Ostrich Farmer Paid for his Slaughter Birds?

2011-06-03T16:59:00.001-07:00

The answer to this question is that there are many ways. Some are fairer to all than others. Ostrich Farmer Payment Options for Slaughter Birds discusses these options. Ostrich farming has undergone a severe learning curve to enable it to develop a balance that optimises returns for both the ostrich farmer and the ostrich processor/marketers.

Rogue Sellers in Ostrich?

2011-06-02T15:39:00.001-07:00

We are all aware of scam schemes and less than honest marketers....people willing to take your money but less concerned about delivering the goods. Ostrich farming over the last couple of decades has experienced many. How to Detect a Rogue Seller provides some clues on how to spot if those trying to sell you ostrich eggs, production birds, ostrich meat or any other product related to Ostrich farming may not be as genuine as they seem.

What is meant by feeding rates?

2011-06-01T15:00:00.001-07:00

When ostrich farming as with all livestock farming, feed must be fed at a prescribed rate to ensure the animal receives sufficient nutrients. Feeding Rates in Ostrich Farming explains this topic and how to apply it to feeding farmed ostriches.

Why is knowing the moisture content of feed ingredients important in ostrich production

2011-05-30T13:00:00.001-07:00

It is important to understand that the answer to this question is critical in any professional livestock production business and not confined to ostrich farming. Understanding the Importance of moisture content of feed in ostrich farming discusses the subject in more detail.

How are Ostrich Skins & Leather Valued at Point of Sale?

2011-05-29T13:41:00.001-07:00

In ostrich farming, the usual method of valuing ostrich skins today is through a system of grading according to the QUALITY of those skins. Grading Ostrich Skins documents the various systems used today.

How are ostrich skins sold when ostrich farming?

2011-05-28T14:51:00.001-07:00

There are a number of ways for ostrich farmers to sell their ostrich skins. Determining factors are such things as where you are located (such as country of operation) and the scale/size of your ostrich farming operation. The Different Stages of Selling Ostrich Skins discusses this in more detail.

What is Nutritional History in Ostrich Farming?

2011-05-25T14:44:00.001-07:00

The Influence of Nutritional History on Genetics in Ostrich Farming discusses this topic in more detail. The principles of nutritional history applies to all species....it is even more important at this stage of the development of ostrich farming.

What are some of the stress factors when ostrich farming

2011-05-24T14:41:00.001-07:00

There are a number of management and environmental factors that can put chicks and adult birds under stress when ostrich farming. A number of these potential stressors are discussed in Identifying Some Stress Factors in Ostrich Farming.

How important is Feed Management in the Raising of Ostrich Chicks?

2011-05-23T15:34:00.001-07:00

High standards of Feeding Management are essential in ostrich farming. Whilst the basic principles for all Ostrich are the same, Ostrich Chick Management discusses some additional items that need to be considered for baby chicks.

Why do Ostrich Chick Die?

2011-05-22T15:23:00.001-07:00

A quote from a South African Industry report: "Chick mortality is a serious destroyer with devastating and varied financial implications. For the last two decades, in all surveys and opinions polls, the vagaries of chick mortality have been listed as enemy number one." The Causes of Ostrich Chick Mortality discusses a number of reasons for the high levels of chick mortality experienced in ostrich farming.

What is the importance of nutrition in genetic performance?

2011-05-20T16:03:00.001-07:00

Understanding the genetics of the blood stock we are working with in ostrich farming is essential to commercial success. However, to perform to their optimum those genetics must be supported by adequate nutrients provided through their rations. The Role of Nutrition in Ostrich Genetic Development explains the importance of Nutritional History and the impact on genetic performance in greater depth.

How do you measure the productive value of an ostrich breeder ration?

2011-05-19T16:18:00.001-07:00

The nutrient levels and ingredient quality of the rations fed to breeders provides the foundation for profitable ostrich farming. The success of any ostrich farming enterprise depends on the highly productive breeders producing quality chicks. The Economics of Breeder Production in Ostrich Farming illustrates how to cost rations when measured in chicks hatched rather than cost per tonne.

What is the Importance of Farm Production Records?

2011-05-17T12:04:00.001-07:00

Recording, Monitoring and Controlling Disease In the Ostrich Farming Environment attempts to illustrate some key records that can provide clues to the success and/or failure basic good management practices in ostrich farming. Good records are essential to monitoring productivity and improving profitability.

Do you know the Ostrich Farming Revenue Streams?

2011-05-15T13:51:00.001-07:00

When ostrich farming outside South Africa was first introduced to the rest of the world there was a madness promoting ostrich on their resale value to other farmers. At the time there was too little focus on the importance of ensuring revenue from the consumers purchasing the end products. The Sources of Ostrich Farming Revenue has an illustration that clearly defines the areas of revenue from products sold within the industry and the revenue required to support the industry.

What is your understanding of a Veterinary Health Plan as it applies in Ostrich Farming?

2011-05-13T15:03:00.001-07:00

A Veterinary Health Plan (VHP) is usually a requirement of farm assurance schemes often required by the buyers of our products. In ostrich farming the VHP provides a great management tool outlining key management areas and defining the management procedures. The Ostrich Farming Veterinary Health Plan outlines the different elements that make up a VHP.

How do you recognise Fading Chick Syndrome

2011-05-10T15:33:00.001-07:00

High levels of chick mortality are long documented as a major problem in ostrich farming. There are a number of causes for chick mortality as discussed in Chick Mortality in Ostrich Farming.

The illustration shows a bright yellow liver and poorly formed heart in a young chick at autopsy. The cause of this is inadequate nutrients fed to the breeders that resulted in inadequate nutrients to pass through the egg to chick as Ostrich Farming Production Depends on Quality Egg Production discusses.

Are high standards of Feed Management important?

2011-05-09T13:36:00.001-07:00

For commercial success in ostrich farming it is essential to practice the highest management standards achievable. For their body weight Ostrich’s food consumption is comparatively small. The Ostrich Farming Principles of Feed Management identifies the various important aspects of feed management.

What is Benchmarking?

2011-05-08T14:53:00.001-07:00

Benchmarking is a standard by which something can be measured or judged. In ostrich farming there are various measurements that will reflect economic success or failure of the ostrich farming business. These measurements are discussed in Benchmark Production Targets in Ostrich Farming.

Do you know how to recognise the body condition of ostrich?

2011-05-06T15:40:00.001-07:00

Monitoring body condition in ostrich farming is a basic of good stockmanship. Monitoring Body Condition in Ostrich illustrates the various observations required to assess the condition of the birds at different ages.

What is the origin of The Five Freedoms?

2011-05-04T16:06:00.001-07:00

They go back as far as July 1979 when there was concern over animal welfare with the increasingly intensive livestock production. The basic principles of these Five Freedoms as they apply to ostrich farming are discussed here.

How much ostrich meat does an ostrich produce?

2011-05-03T02:10:00.001-07:00

The meat yield today is extremely variable with the best producing slaughter ostrich yielding in excess of 50kgs per bird of boneless meat and the poorest birds yielding less than 20kgs of boneless meat. Ostrich Meat Yields in Slaughter Birds discusses the ratios of the different quality muscles in greater detail. When building a business plan for ostrich farming, understanding these ratios and therefore the different values is essential.

What is the reason Ostrich Farming has profit potential?

2011-05-01T14:52:00.001-07:00

Examining the evidence over the past 20 or so years since ostrich farming was first farmed outside South Africa it is possible to see that a great deal has been learned. Comparison of feed conversion ratios across species illustrated this point. The discussion on genetics here and here are just some clues on the untapped potential for ostrich farming.

How important is understanding the Value Chain in Ostrich Farming?

2011-04-30T14:55:00.001-07:00

My opinion is that it is essential to the success of any business enterprise. The ostrich farming value chain is defined here.

How important is the business plan in ostrich farming?

2011-04-22T14:38:00.001-07:00

This is a question that we cannot ask too often as is as essential when starting an ostrich farm as when starting any other business. With the history of ostrich farming, it could be considered critical to the success of that business. Building and Ostrich Farming Business plan summarises the important components for a business plan.

Are vitamins and minerals important in ostrich diets?

2011-04-21T16:49:00.001-07:00

The answer to this question is yes. The Role of Nutrition in Ostrich Farming And Understanding Nutrients And Ingredients explains how they can provide as much as 50% of the performance value to a balanced ration in ostrich farming as illustrated.

How is meat yield defined in Ostrich farming?

2011-04-19T12:40:00.001-07:00

The answer to this question has resulted in confusion for many. Influence of Meat Yields on Ostrich Farming Profitability highlights the importance of understanding that the greater the meat yield, the lower the processing costs per kilo. The graphic above illustrates how current ostrich farming meat yields are well below the full potential thus demonstrating the amazing potential

Should we fear genetic improvement?

2011-04-18T14:10:00.001-07:00

Agriculture has developed through the ages by selecting the best breeding stock, be it livestock or seeds from crops. Genetic improvement by natural selection for your ostrich farming venture discusses this issue. Included is a discussion on recent changes in the way genetics are developed in some sectors of agriculture that are not incorporated in ostrich farming.

Why do we farm ostrich?

2011-04-17T15:48:00.001-07:00

Over the past couple of decades new entrants to ostrich farming have believed in the contribution ostrich can provide as an efficient supplier of red meat protein. This is discussed in more detail in Ostrich Farming Production and the Increasing Potential of Ostrich Meat.

What vaccinations are required in Ostrich Farming?

2011-04-15T09:19:00.001-07:00

Any vaccination program in ostrich farming is dependent on local conditions and local legislation. Veterinary Health Plan for Ostrich Farming contains a section on defining Uses of Medicines, Vaccines, their Safety and their Recording when putting together a VHP.

How do you add value by differentiating your product over mainstream product?

2011-04-13T15:42:00.001-07:00

The Ostrich Farming Value Pyramid identifies the changes in value as volume increases in ostrich farming. The diagram identifies areas that an ostrich farmer and processor working in collaboration can add value to their products.

In Ostrich farming are breeder rations cheaper when evaluated by cost per tonne or cost per hatched chick?

2011-04-12T15:36:00.001-07:00

Many years ago I listened to a presenter at an international ostrich farming conference explain to the audience that their ostrich breeders consume nearly a tonne of feed per year and as this was a great deal of feed they need to ensure it was cheap. The economics of breeder management in ostrich farming provides a different way to look at this...then you can judge for youselves which is the cheaper option? Is it measuring the price of feed by cost per tonne or cost per hatched chick?

Why is Understanding Feed ingredient classifications important in Ostrich farming?

2011-04-11T08:06:00.001-07:00

The answer to this question is the same across all species and not specific to ostrich farming. Feed Ingredient Types in A Balanced Ostrich Feed defines these classifications and explains the role each class has in livestock production. Food ingredients from different classes are handled differently by the digestive systems and that is why it is as important to ensure a variety of feed ingredients from various food groups in ostrich farming and all livestock production.

When ostrich farming what are the important components in management?

2011-04-10T02:39:00.001-07:00

To answer this question ostrich farming is similar to other commercial livestock farming. Apart from finance, the key management factors are Nutrition, Feed Management, Farm Management and Genetics. Management Factors that influence the Success of Ostrich Farming discusses the importance of this order in more detail.

So what does make ostrich leather unique?

2011-04-07T15:05:00.001-07:00

In ostrich farming, the uniqueness of ostrich leather lies in the size of a skin from a feathered animal as feathers produce follicles on the skin. Ostrich are a large bird so these follicles produced by ostrich feathers are of a large and attractive size for many uses in fashion products.

What makes Ostrich Leather Unique?

2011-04-06T15:12:00.001-07:00

Ostrich were originally domesticated to enable the ostrich feathers to be harvested. This move saved the ostrich from becoming extinct. The feather industry collapsed with the outbreak of WW1. After WW2 the South African’s ostrich farming saw an opportunity in developing the ostrich skin markets to increase their revenue.

Do you know the colour of Ostrich meat?

2011-04-05T13:40:00.001-07:00

In the mid 1990s, when ostrich farming was first developed outside the African continent, a meat scientist told me how he had purchased (at very high cost) a slaughter bird to carry out trials and develop a meat chart for his country. The bird was slaughtered; the meat inspector took one look at the carcass and stamped it as condemned. Why did he do this? As ostrich is classed as poultry he believed ostrich meat was a white meat, so viewing this red meat carcass presented he naturally thought there was a problem with the bird. Well produced ostrich produce a great meat that is red in colour.

What Feed Ingredients class as Forage?

2011-04-04T15:00:00.001-07:00

Today we hear a lot about the importance of the animals providing our meat as grass fed. Grass is just one forage crop. Lucerne, also known as alfalfa, is also a forage ingredient and the important forage crop contributing to good production, optimum health and quality meat in ostrich farming. Feed Ingredient Types in A Balanced Ostrich Feed discusses the classification of the different feed ingredients used in ostrich rations.

Are your Production Goals High Enough?

2011-04-03T12:26:00.001-07:00

This question is the title of a paper published over 10 years ago and based on the largest study ever carried out in ostrich farming. The results of this survey are discussed in Egg production targets in Ostrich Farming. The table provides an illustration of the importance of not only high egg laying but also converting those eggs to live chicks and ultimately slaughter birds or future breeding stock.

What is the importance of an Operational Plan in Ostrich Farming

2011-04-01T13:40:00.001-07:00

When starting ostrich farming the business plan is made up of four major components that are interdependent on each other - marketing, development, financial and operational. The Operational Plan in an ostrich farming business quantifies the various activities required and management practices to be put in place to implement those activities.

What is the difference between Good Practice and Best Practice?

2011-03-30T16:17:00.001-07:00

In production “Good Practice” is defined as established wisdom, widely applied and often embodied in law, codes of practice or assurance schemes whereas “Best Practice” is defined is leading edge thinking, practically applied which brings competitive advantage and expected to “add value”. Examples of Best Practice that can be applied to ostrich farming are provided in The Value Pyramid and How it Affects Current Farming Practices.

What is the difference in Boneless Meat weight and Carcass Weight?

2011-03-29T15:35:00.001-07:00

When ostrich farming these measurements are important when assessing the performance of slaughter birds and understanding the difference is critical to calculating potential bird revenue. Ostrich Farming Terminology and Economic Measurements of Production provides a brief description of the two different measurements.

Are there regulations regarding the use and recording of medicines in ostrich farming?

2011-03-28T05:24:00.001-07:00

A veterinary health plan in livestock farming should include a section on the Use of Medicines, Vaccines, their safety and their recording and the same principles should be applied in ostrich farming.

What is Feed Management in ostrich farming?

2011-03-27T04:44:00.001-07:00

Most understand the important role of nutrition in ostrich farming, more difficult is to understand the importance of high standards of feed management and all the management aspects that make up feed management and how it impacts on production and therefore profitability. The Ostrich Farming Principles of Feed management provides a summary of the major factors involved in feed management as it relates to farming ostrich.

Ostrich Farming Strategic Analysis

2011-03-25T16:15:00.001-07:00

In 1998 there was a gathering of international business people from all stages of the Ostrich Farming Value Chain, who met to assess where the ostrich farming industry was then and where it was heading. At the end of the two days the meeting summarised the following as key issues that required addressing:

- Product Inconsistency

- Logistical Distribution

- Confusing messages to consumers

- Weak Institutional Environment

Ostrich Farming and Industry Strategic Analysis provides a summary report of the two day meeting.

How do we Control Disease in Ostrich farming?

2011-03-24T14:22:00.001-07:00

A disease control plan is an essential management tool in livestock farming. A bio-security plan forms the basis of disease control planning in ostrich farming. Disease Control Programs in Ostrich farming discusses bio-security plans for ostrich farming.

Do you know what the Five Freedoms are in Ostrich Farming?

2011-03-23T17:55:00.001-07:00

The section of General Ostrich Welfare in the Veterinary Health Plan referenced the internationally recognised five freedoms, so what are these 5 freedoms as they apply to ostrich farming? Ostrich Farming 5 Freedoms describes the 5 freedoms.

What is Feed Ingredient Type?

2011-03-22T14:59:00.001-07:00

Livestock rations, including those used in ostrich farming, are made up of a number of nutrients provided by the different feed ingredients. These ingredients have their own unique characteristics that are discussed in Feed Ingredient Types in a Balanced Ostrich Feed.

How to Identify Quality Ostrich Chicks

2011-03-20T04:32:00.001-07:00

Over the years there are a number of myths that have abounded in ostrich farming regarding growth rates and what makes a healthy ostrich. Monitoring Ostrich Body Condition in Ostrich Farming provides some guidelines on how to identify healthy ostrich.

What is Flock Security?

2011-03-19T03:42:00.001-07:00

In the context of ostrich farming flock security as referenced in the Ostrich Farming Veterinary Health Plan identifies areas that form a threat to the business from external sources. The introduction of disease is a major risk factor for any livestock farmer. Flock Security in Ostrich Farming discusses the various issues related to flock security that require consideration

Why must the importance of quality egg production never be under estimated?

2011-03-17T13:37:00.001-07:00

Ostrich eggs are the foundation of successful ostrich farming. Ostrich Farming Production Depends on Quality Egg Production explains the reasons why in greater detail. The picture is of a dead chick with a very yellow liver. The liver should be a normal red brown colour. Chicks hatched with a liver in this condition will fail thrive.

How do I find a Market when Ostrich Farming?

2011-03-16T05:28:00.001-07:00

A question regularly asked when "I am starting an ostrich farming and am looking for places to sell the birds at slaughtering age". The importance of knowing your market is essential. Designing and Ostrich Farming Marketing Plan discusses the relevant factors to consider and guidance on understanding the markets.

Do not start rearing birds until you know where those birds will be sold. Research, research, research and more research BEFORE starting an ostrich farm i.e. use associations, visit farms, research why some ostrich farms have failed and read all you can. When researching compare what makes poultry, pig and beef farms successful and why others fail. The basic principles are similar to all livestock farming - just adapted to suit the individual species you are farming.

What is the link between Ostrich Farming Production Assumptions and Terminology of Economic Measurements of Production

2011-03-15T14:37:00.001-07:00

In ostrich farming the business plan is based on a number of assumptions. These assumptions reflect the various economic measurements of production.

What are the Production requirements of Ostrich Rations?

2011-03-12T07:26:00.001-08:00

In commercial ostrich farming this is determined by the production group. Understanding these factors is critical to the success of the enterprise. The Production Requirements Of Ostrich Rations discusses this in more detail.

Why is an Operational Plan an important component of the Ostrich Farming Business Plan?

2011-03-10T11:53:00.001-08:00

The role of the operational plan in ostrich farming is to clearly identify all the activities required by the business to achieve the objectives of the business and then to put in a place the plan to achieve those day to day operational activities of the business.

How important is the Marketing Plan in Ostrich Farming?

2011-03-06T12:54:00.001-08:00

The Ostrich Farming Marketing Plan is a critical component of the Ostrich Farming Business Plan as it not only defines your market it also identifies the requirements of that market. It is essential for any entering ostrich farming to identify their market.

What is the difference in an Ostrich Farming Value Chain and Value Pyramid?

2011-03-03T14:03:00.001-08:00

An ostrich farming Value Chain identifies the various production stages that turn production of ostrich farming raw material into commercial products sold the end consumer. The Ostrich Farming Value Pyramid identifies the changes in value as volume increases and how to add value by differentiating the individual companies’ product from mainstream product.

What is the Value Chain in Ostrich Farming?

2011-03-01T04:38:00.001-08:00

A value chain is used to illustrate the various stages of production that turn the production of a raw material into commercial products purchased by consumers. Defining the Ostrich Farming Value Chain identifies the components as they apply to ostrich farming.

How much Ostrich Meat is produced by a Slaughter Bird?

2011-02-28T15:02:00.001-08:00

In ostrich farming currently ostrich meat yield remains extremely variable. Some slaughter birds have yields from as little as 18kgs total boneless meat, whilst others can achieve in excess of 50kgs total meat yield. There are a number of reasons for this variance, including the fact that the ostrich farming industry has not yet had sufficient commercial levels of production to support genetic improvement programs.

In Ostrich Farming do you understand the difference in Carcass Weight and Boneless Meat Yield?

2011-02-27T15:40:00.001-08:00

Ostrich meat is generally sold “off the bone”. Therefore in ostrich farming it is extremely important to understand the difference between boneless meat and carcass weight when estimating the farms total revenue from meat. Ostrich Farming Terminology and Economic Measurements of Production provides definitions of Ostrich Carcass Weight and Ostrich Boneless Meat Yield.

What are some of the production problems to overcome in Ostrich Farming

2011-02-25T15:19:00.001-08:00

The first step in ostrich farming is to understand the key production targets and identify any areas that carry potential problems. Production problems are such things as breeders with sluggish breeding, ostrich egg infertility or low egg production. A detailed summary of production problems are listed here.

What is meant by “Productive Value” in rations in Ostrich Farming?

2011-02-24T11:47:00.001-08:00

Ostrich farming depends on hens laying quality ostrich eggs, those ostrich eggs producing strong chicks that are healthy and grow quickly. When hatched with strong bones and well formed internal organs they are capable of excellent feed conversion. Rations with a high productive value are key to achieving high production. Establishing the “Productive Value of Ostrich Rations” discusses how to identify if rations have high production capabilities.

Feather Pecking

2011-02-23T13:31:00.001-08:00

Feather pecking is a common problem in domesticated poultry production and not uncommon in ostrich farming. The possible causes are multifactor. A guide to these causes are discussed in greater detail in Why do some Ostrich have Feather’s missing in Ostrich Farming?

The importance of Management in Ostrich Farming

2011-02-22T02:47:00.001-08:00

There are four management components that are required to be correctly in place in livestock farming and ostrich farming is no exception to this rule. These components are Nutrition, Feed Management, Farm Management and Genetics, and in that order of importance.

A farm can have the best management in place, but if there are problems with the nutrition, the farm will fail. Conversely the farm can have the best nutrition, but if the management is falling short, that farm will still fail. All have to work together and discussed in greater detail in “Management Factors that influence the Success of Ostrich Farming.”

Please send me full Introduction of farming & feasibility study

2011-02-21T05:41:00.001-08:00

This is a question frequently requested by those interested in ostrich farming. There are many elements to ostrich farming. Sources of Ostrich Farming Revenue contains an illustration of the production processes throughout the ostrich value chain and discusses the revenue sources.

What is the Target Growth Rate of an Ostrich in Commercial Ostrich Farming?

2011-02-19T15:03:00.001-08:00

The objective in ostrich farming is to achieve a bird at slaughter producing good muscle. Historically ostrich slaughter birds are variable in slaughter weight and the meat yield for the same slaughter weight due to the variations in fat to meat ratios. A bird yielding low meat yields produces muscles that are high cost to process with limited usability.

The growth curve of a US Farmer Trial, a Gompertz Model and current Industry Average are illustrated in Understanding Production Requirements for Slaughter Birds in Ostrich Farming.

The Benefits of Hatching Strong Chicks in Ostrich Farming

2011-02-17T10:05:00.001-08:00

Over the years ostrich farming has experienced poor and variable hatching rates in ostrich eggs. It has also experienced variable quality chicks at hatch. Many of these chicks that have grown slowly suffered high levels of mortality. The chicks in picture are 150 day old African Blacks Chicks.

The stronger the ostrich chicks at hatch, the faster they grow, thus taking advantage of the exceptional feed conversion of ostrich at this age. This fast growth in the early weeks is a key factor to achieving competitive feed conversion rates.

Why does the Success of Ostrich Farming depend on Egg Quality?

2011-02-16T06:11:00.001-08:00

The answer to this question in ostrich farming is because only ostrich eggs of the right quality will hatch and produce strong chicks that grow well from day 1. We look not only for an ostrich hen that produces a high number of ostrich eggs, but those ostrich eggs must hatch strong ostrich, healthy chicks. Ostrich Farming Production Depends on Quality Egg discusses the reasons in more depth.

What is meant by Production Assumptions in Ostrich Farming Business Planning?

2011-02-15T11:52:00.001-08:00

When we build a business plan it is necessary to establish assumptions to determine the revenue streams, expenses and cash flows for the business as well as establishing the profitability of that business. In a Business Plan for an ostrich farming enterprise there are many assumptions required for production, costs and prices received for the different products.

Understanding Production Assumptions in Ostrich Farming provides an overview of the production assumptions required for building an ostrich farming business plan.

Why can Ostrich Meat Become Competitive?

2011-02-14T16:21:00.001-08:00

The graphic illustrates the significant increase in the consumption of pig and poultry meat at the expense of the ruminants. What is this telling us about the potential for Ostrich Meat?

Ostrich are a monogastric provider of red meat with the capability of producing that meat as efficiently as pig and poultry. However, to achieve that requires that ostrich farming adopts modern farming practices based on production nutrition, high standards of feed management and farm management to support that nutrition and improving the genetic stock.

What about Ostrich Leather – I thought it had a high value?

2011-02-12T10:07:00.001-08:00

Yes, the South African farmers developed an ostrich leather industry based on tanning the ostrich skins and selling the leather to manufactures of very high value products.

To achieve these high prices, the philosophy was based on limiting production to maintain exclusivity. To produce sufficient ostrich to reliably supply the Ostrich Meat market requires the development of ostrich farming on a volume scale. This creates increases the numbers of skins, thus bringing into commodity prices.

What is the Size of the Ostrich Meat Market?

2011-02-10T15:16:00.001-08:00

The answer to this question depends on your definition of Ostrich Meat Market. Is it the current market or is it the market potential?

The current market assumes the current ostrich meat tonnages sold. The potential market looks at overall meat consumption and establishes best estimates as to the % of that consumption that you can supply if able to grow your production. This is a key question to answer when setting up in ostrich farming.

Is there any Buy Back Policy for Eggs and Chicks when starting ostrich farming?

2011-02-09T14:29:00.001-08:00

This is a question frequently asked by those when first entering ostrich farming. The simple answer is no there are no official policies. Any such policy will be generated by individual businesses and the infrastructure already in place in your region.

The driver of this question is often in the process or building an ostrich farming business plan and asking the question what are the sources of ostrich farming revenue. The simplest answer to that question is a ready market, such as a buy back scheme – but that is not usually the best answer.

How important is Ostrich Meat Production?

2011-02-08T02:49:00.001-08:00

The domestication of ostrich first started in the early 19^th century to satisfy the demand for ostrich feathers, when the feathers were in high demand for the fashion industry.

The increasing interest in ostrich farming in recent years is to tap into the potential of ostrich as a supplier of high quality ostrich meat, especially for markets unable to consume pig meat.

What is meant by Feed Conversion Ratio?

2011-02-07T02:07:00.001-08:00

Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) is a measurement used to establish the amount of feed required to feed an animal per kilogram of liveweight. FCR is as important in ostrich farming as it is in any livestock meat production.

Comparison of Feed Conversion Ratios Across Specie – Useful Info for Those in Ostrich Farming illustrates comparisons between ostrich, pig and poultry production. An important measurement to note is the impact on days taken to reach market slaughter weight.

What are the requirements for an Ostrich Farming Business Plan?

2011-02-05T09:19:00.001-08:00

Are you considering starting ostrich farming? If so, the first step is to build a business plan. The plan needs to follow basic business plan principles but ensuring it incorporates the unique aspects of the production requirements specific to ostrich and the markets they are entering into.

Read Building an Ostrich Farming Business Plan for some clues on activities that need to be considered when building your plan.

What do we mean by Ostrich Farming Infrastructure

2011-02-04T03:41:00.001-08:00

Many start ostrich farming wishing to carry out one or two elements of production, such as producing ostrich eggs, incubating or maybe only finishing birds ready for slaughter. There are a number of different categories in the ostrich farming value chain that supply revenue to the ostrich farmer. The diagram in the article sources of ostrich farming revenue illustrates these different areas.

As you can see here, it is extremely important to ensure every aspect of the supporting ostrich farming infrastructure is in place, before investing money on raising birds unless you have sufficient capital to include those missing elements in your business plan.

What is Volume in Ostrich Farming

2011-02-03T01:58:00.001-08:00

The size of any farming operation today impacts on production costs – basically the larger the farmer, the greater the opportunity to reduce costs through economies of scale. This is particularly critical in ostrich farming today as many farms start very small, often with only one or two breeder groups.

One way to increase volume to achieve economies of scale in purchasing contracts is for a number of producers to work in collaboration. The benefits of this approach to not only improve purchasing power there are also benefits in accessing market contracts. The article Defining Volume as it Relates to Ostrich Farming discusses this in greater detail.

The Potential of Ostrich Fat and Ostrich Oil to Increase Ostrich Farmer Revenue

2011-02-01T10:05:00.001-08:00

Most animals have some method of fat storage for use at times of stress, illness, high production or serious weather. Ostrich stores most of this ostrich fat between two layers of grey skin.

Click here to learn how Ostrich fat and Ostrich oil can provide additional revenue in ostrich farming.

What are the different Ostrich Feathers

2011-01-31T13:30:00.001-08:00

Ostrich farming first started in the Eastern Cape in South Africa in 1838 to supply the ostrich feather markets.

There are a number of different types of ostrich feathers. They are determined by the part of the body they grow, the age of the bird and sex of the ostrich. Their use varies from feather dusters to high value stage shows, films and carnivals. The article Ostrich Farming for Ostrich Feathers lists the different feathers and their names.

Are Ostrich Skins the Primary or By Product in Ostrich Farming

2011-01-30T14:13:00.001-08:00

The skins of an ostrich are sold to tanneries to produce ostrich leather. The unique markings of the Ostrich skin as made by the feather follicles.

Ostrich leather is considered a luxury product selling into the fashion market as a result demand is subject to the current trends in the fashion industry. To maintain regular production, a strong ostrich meat market is critical to sustainable success and profitability of ostrich farming.

To learn more about the revenue contribution of ostrich leather click here

Running Wild With Ostrich Meat

2011-01-29T17:15:00.001-08:00

Ostrich meat is a red healthy meat which can be incorporated into any diet program that requires ingredients low fat, low cholesterol, but relatively high in protein.

This is why some athletes prefer to select ostrich in preference to beef, when it comes to their dietary needs.

When you enter ostrich farming, you enter into a whole new world of discovery. The more information you learn abut your final products and their benefits, the more educated you will be in knowing what to produce for its designated market.