Will the big birds fly?
K. F. THOMPSON AND S. BINKS
Canterbury Ostrich Processors, Box 53, Lincoln
E-Mail:
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production 2001. 61:
42-44
Modern ostrich farming in New Zealand commenced in 1994 with
importation of eggs. In 1997 the first processing of ostrich meat for
the domestic market occurred. By 1999 there were estimated to be 2500
breeding hens, 12,000 chicks and 10,000 rising 1-year-old birds. The
current domestic market for ostrich meat is about 100 tonne annually and
there has been an increase of 70% in the last 12 months. About 4000
yearling birds provide meat for the domestic market. Export of ostrich
to Europe commenced in 2000. At current prices the limiting constraint
is achieving 15 slaughter birds per hen each year. Slaughter birds need
to be over 95 kg live weight. Quality of hen nutrition is considered a
critical factor influencing embryonic mortality and chick survival. The
target rate is being achieved by some farmers, but for this to be an
industry average, further developments in breeding hen nutrition and
young chick survival will be required.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
ostrich; New Zealand; reproduction; feeding; products
Last Updated 7/08/01
