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A Guide to Rearing & Feeding Ostriches
Introduction
Ostriches are the world’s largest birds and, while still relatively rare, are becoming more popular on UK smallholdings and farms. Whether you’re keeping them for meat, eggs, breeding, or simply as impressive additions to your land, providing the right nutrition and care at each stage of life is crucial for healthy, thriving birds.
Key Nutritional Needs
Ostriches grow rapidly and require a balanced, high-protein diet—especially during their first year. Their nutritional requirements are different from poultry or game birds, with a greater need for fibre, certain vitamins, and minerals (particularly calcium and phosphorus for bone strength).
- Protein: Vital for rapid growth in chicks and juveniles
- Fibre: Important for healthy digestion and gut function
- Calcium & Phosphorus: Essential for bone development, especially in growing birds
- Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin D, E, and trace minerals support immunity and overall health
Types of Feed by Life Stage
Starter Crumb (0–8 weeks):
- High-protein (20–24%) fine crumb for ostrich chicks
- Fortified with vitamins and minerals for strong early growth
- Feed little and often to encourage eating and minimise wastage
Grower Feed (8 weeks–6 months):
- Slightly lower protein (18–20%), increased fibre
- Supports steady growth, feather development, and skeletal strength
- Gradually transition from crumb to pellet to avoid digestive upset
Maintenance/Adult Feed (6 months+):
- Lower protein (14–16%), higher fibre to mimic natural grazing
- Balanced calcium and phosphorus for ongoing bone health
- Supplement with chopped forage, hay, and access to pasture where possible
Grit & Supplements:
- Offer grit to aid digestion, especially for penned birds
- Vitamin/mineral supplements may be useful during growth, breeding, or stress
How to Feed
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Frequency:
- Chicks: Feed 3–4 times daily in small amounts
- Growers/Adults: 1–2 times daily, with constant access to forage or fibre
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Quantity:
- Follow manufacturer guidelines and adjust for age, size, and activity
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Water:
- Fresh, clean water must always be available
- Use large, sturdy drinkers that cannot be tipped over
Housing & General Care
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Space:
- Ostriches need plenty of room—large, securely fenced paddocks are essential
- Overcrowding leads to stress, injury, and health problems
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Shelter:
- Provide dry, draught-free housing for protection from wind and rain
- Shade is important during hot weather
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Fencing:
- Use strong, high fencing (at least 2 metres) to keep birds safe and contained
Health & Biosecurity
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Cleanliness:
- Clean feeders and drinkers daily, and keep housing well-maintained
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Worming & Parasites:
- Regular worming and health checks recommended, especially on pasture
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Biosecurity:
- Minimise contact with wild birds and rodents to reduce disease risk
- Quarantine new birds before introducing to your main flock
Common Feeding Mistakes & FAQs
- Mistake: Feeding poultry or game bird feed—these don’t meet ostrich nutritional needs
- Mistake: Not providing enough fibre, leading to digestive issues
- Mistake: Skimping on calcium or phosphorus, risking weak bones in young birds
FAQs:
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Can I feed ostriches chicken or game bird feed?
No—ostriches need specialist feed with higher fibre and different mineral balance. -
Do ostriches need grit?
Yes, especially if not free-ranging. -
How long do ostrich chicks stay on starter crumb?
Usually up to 8 weeks, then gradually transition to grower feed.
Product Recommendations & Internal Links
Explore our full range of ostrich feeds, suitable for every life stage. We also stock grit, supplements, and essentials to support the health and wellbeing of your birds.