Ostrich Nutrition
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1. Newly hatched chicks up to 4 - 6 weeks are generally fed a high protein ration ranging from 20 - 22 % . These starters are designed to meet the high energy requirements of young babies. Young chicks should consume 50 - 80 grams per day to maintain growth requirements. The length of time on this ration will depend on the individual chick. Care must be undertaken to ensure chicks have sufficient exercise, as they may gain weight very quickly.
2. Chicks from approximately 6-8 weeks to 3-4 months are switched from the higher protein level feeds to a lower level varying from 16-18%. The feeds are designed to promote steady growth while minimizing rapid weight gains, which can potentially create leg problems in young chicks. Exercise and run areas are essential to the development of strong legs and bone structure. The pellet or chip size is prepared for birds of this category in different diameters.
3. Chick from 3 -4 months to pre-breeders are classed as Growing Birds, for feed purposes.
At this age birds may be fed a pellet ration containing levels from 16-18 % protein, depending on the feed program of various feed companies. Feeds are designed to promote even growth and good feathering, without pushing birds too hard.
4. Breeder Birds are generally switched from a winter maintenance ration to a breeder ration, 21-24% protein levels, roughly 4 weeks before the expected breeding season commences. Adult breeding ostriches can eat 2½ to 5 pounds per day. Once the breeding season is complete, the birds should be placed on a maintenance ration.
Commercial feed companies offer ostrich feeds in various forms - meal crumbles, chips, pellets. There is still need for a considerable amount of research on the nutritional requirements of ostriches. This research is particularly important for producers who are feed-lotting birds. The ostrich is an extremely efficient converter of fibre, and cultivated pastures could become an economical solution for feed lot operations.
The information provided in this section are only guidelines and general practices currently being used by producers. Many producers have ventured into "on farm" blending of feed rations, to cut costs and to further customize their feed mix. Extreme care and analysis must be done by the producer to ensure good results. It is advisable to work on the advise of a feed specialist, when blending and testing on-farm feed rations.