Monday, May 26, 2008

FARMING INFORMATION

Production Facts

Ostrich production is the key to reaching the goal of commercial production. Ostrich hens can lay anywhere from 20-120 eggs per season, but the average in Canada is between 30-60. Our season generally runs from February/March to September/October. Climate, diet and the general well being of the birds will determine the production and fertility of eggs. The hens may start to lay as early as 2 years but are not considered mature until 4 to 5 years of age and at this age should be a consistent layer. Hens will lay an egg every other day until her clutch is depleted (10-15 eggs) and rest for a few days, then start laying again. Fertility rate can vary from 50% to 100%. The average is 80%.

Hatchability

The hatchability figures will vary from producer to producer. Proper nutrition is a key part of management and can have a major impact on the operation. With experience, proper incubation parameters and health conditions of breeding stock, hatch-ability as high as 80-90% of fertile eggs can be achieved.

Survivability

The survivability of chicks depends largely on management practices. Mortality of chicks averages 10%, but this figure will decrease as we learn more about raising these birds through research and development. Mortality may be higher in larger operations as compared to smaller operations with one or two breeding pairs. An average of 20-30 chicks can be raised to processing age from one laying hen. These figures will vary from farm to farm.

Processing Age

The age to process is generally determined by body size, a circumference of 110-112cm around the chest (in front of the wings) is considered an ideal size. This gives a hide that is 12-14 square feet in size. Birds are generally in the 200lb. to 240lb. range live weight at slaughter age. After processing, this will yield 90 -100 lb. of edible deboned lean meat. Processing age should be 12-14 months.

http://www.ostrich.ca/manual/index.htm#survive

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