While ostrich farming may be perceived as an endeavor for luxury seekers, it is important to recognize that it can indeed be a profitable business if proper guidelines and practices are followed. Ostriches, known as the heaviest land birds, offer unique opportunities for those interested in this industry.
There are two species of ostrich in the world: the common ostrich, native to large areas of sub-Saharan Africa, and the Somali ostrich, native to the Horn of Africa. In Kano, a young farmer named Sunusi Ali Musa emphasized the profitability of ostrich farming when done correctly. He explained that a space of 20-by-30 feet is sufficient for two female and one male ostrich after they are removed from the nursery……..Continue Reading
Musa, who is also a poultry incubator fabricator, shared that an aspiring farmer can start by purchasing a two-week-old or one-month-old ostrich chick, which should be kept in the nursery feeding section. The chick’s diet should mainly consist of maize or soybeans mixed with leaves such as salad, cabbage, and other green leaves. Monitoring the chick’s food intake is crucial to prevent early-stage obesity, which can hinder its structural development.
Raising an ostrich involves different stages, from chicks to fully grown birds, each requiring specific space and food for optimal growth. As the ostrich matures, it may need to be caged due to potential hostility and to minimize exposure to unforeseen dangers.
The cost of an ostrich ranges between N230,000 and N250,000, while an egg costs N50,000. However, the true gains for a farmer typically begin when the ostrich reaches around six months of age, as the price for a baby ostrich at this stage can reach N600,000, with prices continuing to rise as it grows.
Ostrich farming offers various dividends. The feathers of these luxury birds are in high demand for embellishing garments, particularly for royalty, making ostrich feather business a sustainable form of livestock farming. The distinctive appearance of the ostrich hide is sought after for leather production, as it possesses marketable qualities and high yielding potential. One ostrich can produce up to 50 square meters of leather, contributing to its high market value.
Ostrich eggs are significant in volume, equivalent to over 20 chicken eggs, and their empty shells are often sold for decoration or craft projects. Some farmers may also sell edible eggs for consumption. Additionally, ostrich meat, known for its leanness and beef-like taste, is commercially available. It is low in fat and cholesterol compared to other meats, making it a sought-after, albeit expensive, option.
Despite their large size, ostriches are renowned as the fastest birds on land, capable of running at speeds up to 70 km/h. They are farmed worldwide by individuals and groups who recognize their value as luxury birds, offering various opportunities for profit and product diversification.
