Nutrition and feed management in the ostrich (Struthio camelus var. domesticus)

Authors: COOPER R.G.; HORBANCZUK J.O.¹; FUJIHARA N.²

Source: Animal Science Journal, Volume 75, Number 3, June 2004 , pp. 175-181(7)

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Abstract:

The ostrich is an important animal in many livestock industries and in the developing world ostrich production is a valuable source of foreign currency netted from the export of meat and skins. Its successful growth and reproductive performance is dependent upon good nutrition. In Zimbabwe, one of the greatest costs involved in the upkeep of ostrich breeder birds is purchased feed (US$4555.45/10 birds p.a.). In order to cover these costs, the producer needs to ensure an adequate throughput of birds for slaughter. The energy provided by a particular feed source is important for growth and development of the bird. More research is required in ostrich nutrition.

Keywords: feed; management; nutrition; ostrich

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1740-0929.2004.00173.x

Affiliations: 1: Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec, Wolka, Kosowska, Poland and 2: Division of Animal Resource Science, School of Agriculture, Graduate School, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Japan

Publication date: 2004-06-01