As of 2016 there were an estimated 7000 ostrich farms in South Africa producing ostrich meat feathers and leather. The vast majority of these farms are found in the Western Cape province with ostrich farming occurring in all nine of South Africa’s provinces.
The majority of ostrich farms in South Africa are family-run operations with fewer than 500 birds. However there are a few large commercial farms that have more than 10000 birds. The largest ostrich farm in the world is Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farms in Oudtshoorn South Africa which has more than 30000 birds.
In the early days of ostrich farming in South Africa many farmers used to catch wild ostriches and tame them. However this is no longer practical or ethical so all ostriches on farms today are bred in captivity.
Ostriches are farmed for their meat feathers and leather. The meat is a red meat similar to beef but with less fat and cholesterol. It is a healthy alternative to other red meats.
The feathers are used for a variety of purposes including upholstery dusters and feather boas. The leather is used to make a variety of products including bags belts and shoes.
Ostriches are interesting creatures and are very different from other farm animals. They are the largest bird in the world and can weigh up to 150 kg. They are also the fastest two-legged animal on earth reaching speeds of up to 70 km/h.
ostriches are social animals and live in flocks of up to 50 birds. They are generally very docile but can be aggressive if they feel threatened.
If you are ever lucky enough to visit an ostrich farm you will surely be amazed by these fascinating creatures.
How many ostriches are on this ranch?
There are 15 ostriches on this ranch.
How many eggs does each ostrich lay per day?
Each ostrich lays between 10 and 15 eggs per day.
What do ostriches eat?
Ostriches eat a variety of things including plants insects and small animals.
How fast can an ostrich run?
Ostriches can run up to 40 miles per hour.
How long do ostriches live?
Ostriches can live up to 50 years in captivity.
How much does an ostrich weigh?
Male ostriches can weigh up to 350 pounds while females can weigh up to 275 pounds.
What is the largest bird in the world?
The ostrich is the largest bird in the world.
What is the smallest bird in the world?
The bee hummingbird is the smallest bird in the world.
How many bones does an ostrich have in its neck?
Ostriches have 16 bones in their necks.
Do ostriches have wings?
Ostriches have wings but they are not able to fly.
How many feathers does an ostrich have?
Ostriches have between 6000 and 7000 feathers.
What is the top speed of an ostrich?
The top speed of an ostrich is 70 kilometers per hour.
What is the average lifespan of an ostrich?
The average lifespan of an ostrich is between 10 and 15 years.
How many eggs does an ostrich lay in a year?
Ostriches can lay up to 60 eggs in a year.
What is the height of an ostrich?
Ostriches can be up to 9 feet tall.
